Low Carb Pizza Casserole has become my go-to weeknight meal, and I’m so excited to share it with you! If you’re craving that unmistakable pizza flavor but want to skip the crust (and the carbs!), this dish is a game-changer. I remember the first time I made this keto friendly pizza casserole; the aroma of simmering marinara, garlic, and Italian herbs filled my kitchen, instantly making my family’s mouths water. It’s one of those comforting, cheesy meals that feels like a treat but is surprisingly good for you. This easy low carb pizza casserole is so simple to whip up, even on the busiest nights. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Pizza Casserole
This dish is a winner for so many reasons! Here’s why it’s become a staple in my kitchen:
- Incredible Taste: You get all the delicious flavors of pizza – the tangy sauce, melted cheese, savory meat – without the crust.
- Super Quick Prep: With only about 15 minutes of prep time, this low carb pizza bake is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Health Benefits: It’s a fantastic way to eat hearty and satisfying meals while staying on track with your low-carb or keto lifestyle.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this cheesy, comforting casserole, making it a hit with the whole family.
- Budget-Friendly: Using common ingredients, this recipe is very affordable, making it a great option for saving money.
- Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite pizza toppings, making it a truly personalizable low carb pizza bake.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally free of gluten, it’s a safe and delicious option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Ingredients for Your Keto Pizza Casserole Recipe
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this amazing sugar-free pizza casserole. You’ll find that most of these are pantry staples or easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground chicken or turkey – I prefer chicken for a lighter flavor, but turkey works beautifully too.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion – about half of a medium onion, finely diced for even cooking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic adds so much flavor!
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – this blend of herbs is essential for that classic pizza taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the savory flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground is always best.
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (sugar-free) – this is key for keeping it low carb; check the label!
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – the melty, gooey cheese pull is non-negotiable.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for that salty, nutty finish on top.
- Optional toppings: sliced olives, mushrooms, bell peppers – feel free to add your favorites!
How to Make Low Carb Pizza Casserole
Whipping up this incredible low carbohydrate pizza dish is surprisingly simple, and the aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is just divine. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this comes together for such a satisfying meal.
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a nice, even bake.
- Step 2: Grab a large skillet and cook your ground chicken or turkey over medium heat until it’s nicely browned. Make sure to drain off any excess fat for a cleaner taste.
- Step 3: Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic with the meat. Sauté until the onion becomes tender and fragrant, which usually takes about 5 minutes.
- Step 4: Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. These simple seasonings pack a punch of flavor.
- Step 5: Pour in the entire jar of sugar-free marinara sauce. Give it a good stir to combine everything.
- Step 6: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes. This allows all those wonderful pizza flavors to meld together beautifully, creating the perfect base for your low carbohydrate pizza dish.
- Step 7: Carefully spread this delicious mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Step 8: Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese all over the top. If you’re using optional toppings like olives or mushrooms for your low carbohydrate pizza dish, add them now.
- Step 9: Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for that glorious moment when the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Step 10: Once it’s out of the oven, let this amazing low carb pizza casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps everything set up nicely.
Pro Tips for the Best Low Carb Pizza Bake
I’ve made this casserole more times than I can count, and these little tricks make all the difference for the ultimate low carb pizza bake experience:
- Always use a sugar-free marinara sauce. The hidden sugars in regular sauces can really impact your carb count.
- Don’t overcook the meat and veggies. You want them tender, not mushy, before they go into the oven.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking is crucial. It allows the cheese to set and makes it easier to serve neat portions.
What’s the secret to perfect cheesy low carb pizza bake?
The blend of mozzarella and Parmesan is key for that classic pizza flavor and gooey texture. For an extra layer of flavor or if you want to add more vegetables, consider adding crumbled low carb pizza casserole with cauliflower florets to the meat mixture before baking. You can find more tips on making delicious casseroles on our latest recipes page.
Can I make this gluten-free pizza casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, minus the cheese topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add the cheese and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
How do I avoid common mistakes with this keto pizza casserole recipe?
A common pitfall is using a marinara sauce with added sugar, which ruins the low-carb aspect. Another mistake is over-baking, which can dry out the meat. Lastly, make sure your oven is properly preheated to ensure even cooking. For more information on low-carb cooking, check out this guide to the ketogenic diet.
Best Ways to Serve Low Carb Pizza Casserole
This versatile low carb pizza casserole is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple sides to create a complete meal. For a classic pizza experience, I love serving it with a crisp, fresh green salad. Think mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette – it’s the perfect contrast to the rich, cheesy casserole. If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, a side of steamed broccoli or asparagus also works wonderfully. For those following a specific low carb pizza bake recipe, consider serving it alongside some garlic butter zucchini noodles for an extra veggie boost. It’s all about balancing those comforting pizza flavors with fresh, healthy accompaniments! You might also enjoy our Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake for another healthy option.
Nutrition Facts for Low Carb Pizza Casserole
This low carb pizza casserole is a satisfying meal that fits perfectly into a keto or low-carbohydrate lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially if you opt for different meats or toppings in your low carbohydrate pizza dish. For more information on tracking nutrition, you can refer to resources like the MyFitnessPal website.
How to Store and Reheat Low Carb Pizza Casserole
This delightful low carb pizza bake is fantastic for meal prep because it stores and reheats beautifully. Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool completely on a wire rack. This is super important to prevent condensation, which can make leftovers soggy. Once cooled, you can cut it into individual portions and store them in airtight containers. These are perfect for grabbing on the go! Stored properly in the refrigerator, your low carbohydrate pizza dish will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re well-wrapped in plastic wrap and then a layer of foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven method gives you that fresh-baked texture back! Try our Cheesy Mashed Potato Balls in Air Fryer for another great make-ahead option.
Frequently Asked Questions About Low Carb Pizza Casserole
Can I freeze this no crust pizza casserole?
Yes, absolutely! Once the casserole has cooled completely, you can cut it into individual portions and freeze them. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It should stay delicious for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What other protein options work for this low carb pizza bake?
While chicken and turkey are fantastic, you can also use ground beef, Italian sausage (check carb count!), or even a mix of meats. For a vegetarian low carb pizza casserole, consider using crumbled extra-firm tofu, finely chopped mushrooms, or a mix of vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Just ensure they are well-drained if they release a lot of moisture. Our Jalapeno Buffalo Chicken Casserole is another flavorful option.
How do I make this a cheesy low carb pizza bake without the dairy?
For a dairy-free version of this no crust pizza casserole, you can substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses with your favorite dairy-free shredded cheese alternatives. Look for cashew-based or almond-based options that melt well. You might also want to add a pinch more Italian seasoning to compensate for the slightly different flavor profile.
Can I add more vegetables to this keto pizza casserole recipe?
Definitely! This recipe is very forgiving and perfect for sneaking in extra veggies. Some great additions include chopped bell peppers (any color!), sliced mushrooms, black olives, spinach, or even some steamed and riced cauliflower mixed into the meat base. Just make sure any wet vegetables are sautéed to reduce moisture before adding them to the casserole. You might also like our Apple Zucchini Bread for a different way to use zucchini.
Variations of Low Carb Pizza Casserole You Can Try
This delicious low carb pizza bake is so versatile, you can easily adapt it to suit your needs and preferences. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Vegetarian Low Carb Pizza Casserole: Skip the meat and load up on veggies! Sauté extra onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, and even some riced cauliflower. You can also add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas for extra protein, though be mindful of the carb count.
- Spicy Pizza Casserole: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or a swirl of your favorite hot sauce into the marinara for a kick.
- Chicken Low Carb Pizza Casserole: While the base recipe works with ground chicken, you can also use shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker assembly. Just mix it with the sauce and toppings.
- Air Fryer or Instant Pot Method: For a faster cooking time, try making this as a no crust pizza casserole in your air fryer or Instant Pot. Adjust cooking times accordingly and ensure the cheese gets bubbly. Check out our Air Fryer Pizza Toast for another quick pizza-like snack.
Low Carb Pizza Casserole: 15 Min Prep Winner
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This low carb pizza casserole is a delicious and easy way to enjoy pizza flavors without the crust. It’s a keto-friendly and gluten-free dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken or turkey
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (sugar-free)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional toppings: sliced olives, mushrooms, bell peppers
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the sugar-free marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. This is your base for the low carb pizza bake.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Add any optional toppings you like for your low carb pizza dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Let the easy low carb pizza casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian low carb pizza casserole, substitute the meat with crumbled cauliflower or extra vegetables.
- Ensure your marinara sauce is sugar-free to keep this recipe low carb.
- This dish is naturally gluten-free.
- Adjust seasonings to your preference for this keto pizza casserole recipe.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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