Name: Easy Pizza Casserole Low Carb
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup low carb marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni; 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers; 1/4 cup sliced black olives

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I like preparing this easy low carb pizza casserole when I want the comforting flavors of pizza without using a traditional crust. The combination of seasoned meat, rich tomato sauce, melted cheese, and classic pizza toppings creates a satisfying dish that feels hearty while still keeping the carbs low. I enjoy how everything bakes together into a warm and flavorful casserole.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers the taste of pizza in a simple casserole form that is perfect for a low carb lifestyle. I appreciate how quickly it comes together with everyday ingredients. The layers of savory meat, sauce, and cheese create a rich and comforting texture that reminds me of classic pizza. I also like how easily the toppings can be changed depending on what I have available. Easy Pizza Casserole Low Carb

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup low carb marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
1/4 cup chopped bell peppers
1/4 cup sliced black olives

Directions

I begin by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a baking dish.

In a skillet over medium heat, I warm the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion for a few minutes until it becomes soft. I add the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.

Next, I add the ground beef or turkey and cook it until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. I drain any excess grease if needed.

I stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, allowing the mixture to simmer for a few minutes so the flavors blend.

I spread the meat and sauce mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. I sprinkle mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top.

Then I add the pepperoni slices, chopped bell peppers, and black olives.

I place the casserole in the oven and bake it for about 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. I let it cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.

Prep time: about 10 minutes
Cook time: about 25 minutes
Total time: about 35 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add mushrooms or spinach to increase the vegetable content. I also like using Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a richer flavor. Occasionally, I mix provolone cheese with mozzarella for extra depth. When I want a little heat, I sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking.

storage/reheating

I store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, I warm a portion in the microwave for a few minutes or place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through. I can also freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw it before reheating. Easy Pizza Casserole Low Carb

FAQs

Is this pizza casserole really low carb?

I keep this casserole low carb by skipping traditional pizza crust and focusing on meat, sauce, cheese, and low carb vegetables.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

I sometimes assemble the casserole earlier in the day and store it in the refrigerator until I am ready to bake it.

What sauce should I use?

I usually choose a low carb marinara sauce with no added sugar so the dish stays keto-friendly.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

I replace the ground meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers to create a vegetarian version.

What toppings work well in this casserole?

I like using classic pizza toppings such as olives, mushrooms, peppers, onions, or even cooked sausage.

Conclusion

I enjoy making this easy low carb pizza casserole because it captures the comforting flavor of pizza in a simple and satisfying dish. The layers of savory meat, melted cheese, and flavorful toppings come together beautifully in the oven. It is a recipe I like preparing when I want a quick, hearty, and low carb meal that everyone can enjoy.