Delicious Low Carb Pizza Casserole Recipe

Are you craving the comforting flavors of pizza but looking for a low-carb alternative? Look no further than this delicious Low Carb Pizza Casserole! Packed with all the classic pizza toppings, this casserole is a perfect choice for those following a keto or gluten-free lifestyle. With a hearty base of cauliflower, savory Italian sausage, and gooey melted cheese, every bite is a satisfying experience that will make you forget you’re enjoying a low-carb meal.

During my own keto journey, I created this recipe out of a longing for pizza nights with my family. Surprisingly, this Low Carb Pizza Casserole has become a favorite even among my carb-loving teenagers! The secret lies in the cauliflower, which absorbs all the Italian seasonings and flavors beautifully, creating a dish that surpasses traditional pizza in taste. Make it ahead for even more developed flavors or customize it with your favorite toppings for a fun and interactive dinner experience. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your table.

Quick Benefits

• Low-carb and Keto-friendly: Perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet, helping to satisfy pizza cravings without the guilt of excess carbs.
• Packed with Protein and Veggies: Loaded with Italian sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, peppers, and cauliflower, providing a hearty and nutritious meal.
• Flavorful and Versatile: The cauliflower base soaks up Italian seasonings, making every bite flavorful. Easily customizable with variations like different vegetables or proteins to suit personal preferences.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Prep ahead and refrigerate the casserole for up to 48 hours before baking. Leftovers store well and can be frozen for up to 3 months, offering convenience for busy days.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Low Carb Pizza Casserole Recipe Recipe

• Delicious Pizza Flavor: Enjoy all the mouth-watering flavors of pizza without the guilt of carbs, perfect for those on a keto or gluten-free diet.
• Packed with Protein and Veggies: This casserole is loaded with Italian sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, and green peppers, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Cheesy Goodness: Indulge in the ooey-gooey goodness of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese that binds all the ingredients together.
• Innovative Use of Cauliflower: The cauliflower serves as a low-carb pasta replacement, soaking up the flavors of the Italian seasonings, providing a unique twist to the dish.
• Make Ahead and Freezer Friendly: Prepare the casserole ahead of time for a convenient meal option and enjoy even richer flavors the next day. Leftovers can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Customizable and Versatile: Experiment with different vegetables, sauces, and protein options to cater to your preferences or dietary needs, making it a flexible and adaptable recipe.
• Great for Families and Kids: Even picky eaters will love this dish with its familiar pizza flavors. Plus, the interactive topping station adds a fun element to dinner time.
• Complete Meal: Serve the pizza casserole with a simple arugula salad or garlic bread for a well-rounded and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients for Delicious Low Carb Pizza Casserole Recipe

Vegetables

• 14 ounces cauliflower florets, cut into bite-size pieces
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 green pepper, cut into bite-size pieces

Protein

• 2.5 ounces pepperoni
• 2 pounds Italian sausage, casings removed if applicable

Dairy

• 12 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, powdered

Condiments & Sauces

• 1.5 cups low-carb pasta sauce, such as Rao’s Homemade Marinara

Spices & Oils

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

How to Make Delicious Low Carb Pizza Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Steam Cauliflower

Place cauliflower in a microwave-safe bowl with 1 cup of water. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for about 3 minutes until tender but not overcooked.

Step 2: Dry Cauliflower

After draining, pat the cauliflower dry with paper towels and set aside.

Step 3: Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 4: Cook Sausage

Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat for approximately 15 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.

Step 5: Sauté Mushrooms

In the skillet, heat olive oil and sauté mushrooms over medium-high heat for 10 minutes to cook off excess water. Remove from heat once done.

Step 6: Prepare Baking Dish

Coat a 13×9 inch casserole dish with non-stick spray and spread ½ cup of pasta sauce evenly on the bottom.

Step 7: Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together cauliflower, cooked Italian sausage, mushrooms, and green peppers until combined.

Step 8: Assemble First Layer

Spread half of the mixture in the casserole dish. Layer with ½ cup of pasta sauce, half of the pepperoni slices, and 6 ounces of shredded mozzarella cheese, pressing them slightly between the toppings.

Step 9: Assemble Second Layer

Layer the remaining mixture over the cheese, top with the remaining pepperoni slices (set aside 10 slices), then add the rest of the pasta sauce and the remaining 6 ounces of mozzarella cheese.

Step 10: Top with Parmesan Mixture

Combine Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning in a small bowl. Sprinkle over the casserole and top with the reserved 10 pepperoni slices.

Step 11: Bake

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melted.

Storage Tips

After making the Low Carb Pizza Casserole, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated throughout. This dish retains its flavors well when reheated, making it a convenient option for quick and delicious meals throughout the week.

If you want to prepare the casserole ahead of time, you can assemble it a few hours before baking and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. This make-ahead option allows for easy meal planning and ensures a freshly baked casserole when needed. Just remember to bake it right before serving to achieve the best results and flavors.

For longer storage, you can portion the cooled casserole into freezer-safe containers and freeze it for up to 3 months. To enjoy the frozen casserole, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it in a 350°F oven until it is heated throughout. This freezing method allows you to have a homemade, ready-to-eat meal on hand for busy days or unexpected cravings.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a different twist, you can swap cauliflower with broccoli or zucchini to add variety to the casserole while maintaining its low-carb profile. Both vegetables complement the other ingredients well and offer a slightly different texture and flavor to the dish.

Opt for a low-carb marinara sauce, such as Rao’s Homemade, to ensure the casserole stays keto-friendly and full of flavor. Choosing a sauce with minimal added sugars will enhance the overall taste while keeping the carb count low.

If you prefer a different protein option, ground beef can be a tasty substitute for Italian sausage. Be sure to adjust the seasoning by adding extra flavors like garlic or dried oregano to enhance the dish’s taste. This swap allows for a different meaty element while still keeping the casserole savory and satisfying.

Serving Suggestions

For an interactive and fun serving suggestion, set up a DIY pizza casserole bar for a family dinner night. Prepare the low carb pizza casserole as directed and then set out small bowls of additional toppings like red pepper flakes, fresh basil, and extra Parmesan cheese. Let each family member customize their portion with their favorite toppings, creating a personalized pizza experience.

To elevate the presentation of the low carb pizza casserole, serve it in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a charming and rustic touch. This not only adds a visually appealing element to the dish but also helps with portion control and ensures everyone gets a perfectly baked, cheesy serving of this delicious casserole.

FAQs for Delicious Low Carb Pizza Casserole Recipe

Can I substitute cauliflower with other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute cauliflower with broccoli or zucchini, both of which work well with the other ingredients in this casserole.

Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours ahead and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving for the best results.

How should I store leftovers of this pizza casserole?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before enjoying.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can make it vegetarian by omitting the sausage and adding more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or eggplant.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that won’t derail your low-carb lifestyle, look no further than this delicious Low Carb Pizza Casserole. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation, loved by keto enthusiasts and carb-lovers alike. The combination of flavors and textures in this casserole truly makes it a winner for any night of the week.

So next time you’re craving the taste of pizza but want to stick to your low-carb goals, remember this fantastic Low Carb Pizza Casserole recipe. With its easy preparation, make-ahead convenience, and endless customization options, it’s a dish that brings joy to the table every time. Embrace the flavors, enjoy the experience, and savor each bite of this hearty and satisfying casserole. Low Carb Pizza Casserole – a delicious way to enjoy all the pizza flavors you love without the guilt!