I have to tell you, Low Carb Pizza Casserole is one of my absolute favorite comfort foods! I mean, who doesn’t love pizza, right? But sometimes, a carb overload just isn’t in the cards, and that’s when this delightful dish comes to the rescue. It’s packed with flavor, super easy to whip up, and you can customize it with all your favorite toppings. Plus, it reminds me of cozy nights at home, watching movies with friends, and indulging in delicious food without the guilt. Who knew low-carb could taste so good?
I’ll never forget the first time I made this casserole; my entire family was skeptical about a “low-carb” pizza. But one bite in, and it was unanimous—this is a keeper! It’s become a regular at our family gatherings, and I can’t recommend it enough. Let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious dish, shall we?
What’s in Low Carb Pizza Casserole?
Cauliflower Rice: This serves as the base of our casserole, mimicking the texture of traditional pizza crust while being low in carbs. Fresh or frozen works; just make sure it’s riced!
Ground Beef or Turkey: Packed with protein and flavor, I usually opt for lean ground beef for a richer taste, but turkey is a fantastic alternative if you prefer a lighter option.
Pizza Sauce: The star ingredient! I use a low-sugar pizza sauce to keep the carbs down. Brands like Rao’s are fantastic for their simple ingredients and robust flavor.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a must-have for that gooey, stretchy goodness! Pair it with a sprinkle of parmesan for a little extra flavor kick.
Pepperoni: My favorite pizza topping, of course! Feel free to mix in other toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives if you’re feeling adventurous.
Italian Seasoning: This blend adds all those yummy pizza spices in one sprinkle! Trust me, the smell alone will have your mouth watering.
Is Low Carb Pizza Casserole Good for You?
Absolutely! The beauty of this Low Carb Pizza Casserole is that it’s not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients.
Cauliflower Rice: It’s a great alternative to traditional grains, providing plenty of fiber and vitamins without the carbohydrates. Plus, it’s low in calories, which is a win-win!
Ground Beef or Turkey: Both are excellent sources of protein, which helps keep you full. Just remember, leaner options will help keep things healthier.
Pizza Sauce: Opting for a low-sugar option minimizes extra carbs, and you’re still getting all the flavor you love about pizza.
Of course, moderation is key—this dish is rich and hearty, so it’s good to balance it with a fresh salad or steamed veggies on the side.
Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups riced cauliflower (fresh or frozen)
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 cup low-sugar pizza sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup sliced pepperoni (or your preferred toppings)
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Servings:** This recipe serves about 6 people, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep!
How to Make Low Carb Pizza Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get that oven nice and toasty!
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in the riced cauliflower and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the cauliflower is tender.
4. Mix in the pizza sauce until everything is well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Layer the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Feel free to throw in some extra toppings if you’d like!
7. Finally, arrange the pepperoni slices on top, ensuring no slice is left behind.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and a glorious golden brown.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. I know it’s hard, but trust me; this dish only gets better!
Serving Suggestions: Pizza Party Ideas
– Pair this casserole with a fresh garden salad to balance out the richness.
– Need some extra crunch? Serve with a side of celery sticks and ranch dressing.
– Feeling adventurous? Mix in some spicy jalapeños for a kick!
I can’t wait for you to give this Low Carb Pizza Casserole a try! Honestly, every time I make it, I can’t help but think about how it brings everyone together for a deliciously fun meal. Don’t forget to share your experience and any tweaks you made—I love hearing how my friends put their spin on recipes! Happy cooking!
