Looking for a bold, cheesy, and comforting baked dish that brings all the flavor of your favorite Italian-style pizza—without crust, gluten, or unnecessary carbs? This Low Carb Pizza Casserole is exactly what you need. With its rich meat base, zesty marinara layer, and golden mozzarella topping, this low-carb version delivers all the richness of classic baked pasta—in a keto-approved, grain-free format.
Perfect for family dinners , meal prep , or when you’re craving something hearty but staying in ketosis, this one-dish wonder uses simple ingredients like ground beef, almond flour, and sugar-free tomato sauce to bring bold Mediterranean flavor into your kitchen. Whether you’re doing strict ketosis , following a low-carb lifestyle , or simply love rich, layered casseroles with depth and richness, this pizza casserole will quickly become a household favorite.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make this perfect low carb pizza casserole from scratch , explore ingredient substitutions, offer serving ideas, and answer your most common questions. Let’s dive into the world of soft, gooey, cheese-drenched comfort!
Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Pizza Casserole
This isn’t just any old lasagna—it’s a savory, cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth delight made with real ingredients that bring bold texture and taste together beautifully—in one pan!
Here’s why it stands out:
- 🥩 Juicy meat base : Made with seasoned ground beef or turkey for lean protein power.
- 🧀 Golden cheese topping : Melted mozzarella or cheddar adds stretch and richness.
- 🍅 Tomato-forward finish : Adds natural acidity and sweetness without sugar overload.
- 🥣 Easy to make : Just layer, bake, and enjoy—no rolling or boiling required!
- ⏱️ Ready in under an hour
- 🧁 Great for batch cooking or freezer meals
- 🧼 Minimal cleanup : One baking dish = easy prep!
Whether you’re making it for yourself after work, your family for dinner, or guests at a weekend gathering, this keto pizza casserole will quickly become a go-to comfort dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meat Layer:
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sugar-free marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tip: Use grass-fed beef for better flavor and nutrition.
For the Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz ricotta or mascarpone cheese
- 1 egg (to bind)
- 1 tsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (for tangy contrast)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pro Tip: Mix in chopped spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Final Assembly:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Optional: Crushed pork rinds or almond flour crust for crunch
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or cast iron skillet generously to prevent sticking.
Pro Tip: Use parchment paper for easier removal after baking.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through (6–8 minutes ).
Drain excess fat if needed.
Add onions, garlic, and spices; sauté for 2–3 more minutes until softened and fragrant.
Stir in marinara or tomato sauce and simmer for 5–6 minutes to build flavor.
Let cool slightly before layering.
Step 3: Make the Ricotta Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine:
- Ricotta or mascarpone cheese
- Egg
- Lemon juice or vinegar
- Salt and pepper
Mix well until smooth and slightly thickened.
Optional: Fold in fresh herbs like basil or spinach by hand for texture.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Assemble in the same order:
- Meat layer
- Ricotta mixture
- Repeat layers if desired
- Top generously with mozzarella cheese
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or oregano.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes , or until bubbly and golden around the edges.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve!
Sprinkle with fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
Serve warm with:
- A side salad
- Garlic bread or keto rolls
- Roasted broccoli or green beans
Enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite of your Low Carb Pizza Casserole !
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 6 Servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~200 kcal |
| Total Fat | ~14 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~6 g |
| Cholesterol | ~60 mg |
| Sodium | ~400 mg |
| Total Carbs | ~6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | ~2 g |
| Net Carbs | ~4 g |
| Protein | ~14 g |
Note: Values may vary based on exact measurements and optional add-ins.
Tips for the Best Low Carb Pizza Casserole
- Use high-quality marinara – Look for no-sugar-added versions for best results.
- Don’t skip resting time – Keeps everything intact and sliceable.
- Layer carefully for even distribution – Ensures each bite has perfect balance.
- Make ahead and store – Flavors intensify overnight; keep refrigerated.
- Double the batch for future meals – Great for freezing and reheating later.
Variations & Customizations
Want to switch things up? Try these tasty variations:
Chicken Alfredo Casserole
Replace marinara with alfredo sauce and top with shredded chicken and bacon.
Vegan Option
Use crumbled tofu instead of ricotta and vegan cheese for plant-based magic.
No-Bake Energy Bowl
Chill the mixture and serve cold with pickled vegetables and hot sauce.
Seafood Ziti
Replace beef with flaked salmon or tuna and layer with pesto.
Spicy Kick
Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or top with spicy sausage crumbles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this truly keto-friendly?
Yes! With only ~4g net carbs per serving , it fits perfectly within a ketogenic lifestyle.
Can I use regular pasta or breadcrumbs?
Not recommended—standard pasta and breadcrumbs are high in carbs. Stick with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
How do I store leftover casserole?
Store cooled portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days . Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
What kind of cheese works best?
Mozzarella gives the richest flavor, but cheddar, Gouda, or goat cheese also work great.
Can I slow-cook this casserole?
Yes! Transfer everything to a slow cooker and simmer on low for 4–6 hours for deeper flavor.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
This Low Carb Pizza Casserole works because of its perfect balance of textures and bold flavors:
- The ground beef gives hearty protein power , keeping you full longer without heaviness.
- The ricotta adds body and creaminess , balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.
- And the mozzarella melts into a rich, golden blanket , completing the Italian-inspired experience.
It’s the kind of dish that makes eating clean feel indulgent—because it tastes so good.
Serving Suggestions
Looking for creative ways to serve your keto pizza casserole beyond just a plate? Here are some ideas:
In Wraps
Wrap warm bites in large lettuce leaves or collard greens for handheld eats.
Over Greens
Top arugula or kale with warm casserole for a heartier salad.
With Dipping Sauces
Try chipotle mayo, ranch, or tzatziki for extra flair.
At a Dinner Party
Cut into squares and arrange on a platter with toothpicks for appetizer bites.
As Leftovers
Crumble over mashed cauliflower or mix with eggs for balanced breakfast bowls.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Let’s take a quick look at the health benefits of what makes this dish special:
Ground Beef
High in iron and B vitamins—supports muscle growth and satiety.
Ricotta / Mascarpone
Rich in calcium and healthy fats—great for brain function and digestion.
Olive Oil / Herbs
Natural anti-inflammatory compounds—boosts heart health and flavor naturally.
Even though this is a baked dish, it’s packed with nutrients that make it more than just a treat—it’s a smart addition to your balanced lifestyle when enjoyed mindfully.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Comfort Dish for Pizza Lovers
This Low Carb Pizza Casserole proves that going low-carb doesn’t mean missing out on bold, comforting flavors. With its soft meat base, rich tomato notes, and signature cheesy finish, it’s the kind of dish that turns a classic pizza into something magical—even without dough or rice.
Whether you’re new to keto, looking for a fast weeknight dinner idea, or want to impress with homemade flair, this pizza casserole deserves a spot in your kitchen. It’s easy to make, customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike.
So go ahead—whip up a batch, share it with friends, or savor it solo. Either way, you’re treating yourself to something worth celebrating.
Print
Low Carb Pizza Casserole – Cheesy, Loaded & Perfectly Keto-Friendly!
- Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
Description
A delightful blend of savory sausage, melty cheese, and fresh veggies!
Ingredients
14 ounces Cauliflower florets, cut into bite-size pieces
2.5 ounces Pepperoni
2 pounds Italian Sausage, if in casings remove from casing before cooking
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
8 ounces Mushrooms, sliced
1 Green Pepper, cut into bite-size pieces
12 ounces Mozzarella cheese, shredded
1.5 cups Low Carb Pasta Sauce, we use Rao’s Homemade Marinara
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, powdered
1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
Instructions
1. Steam the cauliflower. Place cut cauliflower in a microwave safe bowl with 1 cup of water. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for approximately 3 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender. Don’t overcook!
2. Drain the cauliflower pat dry with a paper towel. Set aside.
3. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
4. In a large skillet over medium high heat cook the Italian sausage, approximately 15 minutes. When the sausage has finished cooking drain the excess fat. Set aside.
5. In the same skillet add olive oil and sauté mushrooms over medium high heat for 10 minutes to remove the excess water. Set aside when done.
6. Prepare a 13×9 inch casserole dish by spraying it with non-stick spray then spread ½ cup of pasta sauce on the bottom.
7. In a large bowl add the cauliflower, cooked Italian sausage, mushrooms, and green peppers. Toss together until well mixed.
8. Spread ½ of the mixture in the casserole dish. Top with ½ cup of pasta sauce, followed by ½ of the pepperonis (kind of press them down in between the other toppings), and finally 6 ounces of mozzarella cheese.
9. Next spread the remaining toppings mixture over the cheese followed by the pepperonis (save 10 slices for the top of the casserole), remaining ½ cup of pasta sauce, and 6 ounces of mozzarella cheese.
10. In a small bowl mix together the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
11. Sprinkle the Parmesan mixture over the casserole and top with 10 slices of pepperoni.
12. Place in oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is warmed through and the cheese is fully melted.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 55 mins
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 10
- Calories: 519
- Fat: 43g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Protein: 27g