Low Carb Pizza Casserole: Quick & Easy Dinner Tonight (Print Version)
Enjoy a satisfying low carb pizza casserole tonight! This easy, cheesy dish brings all your favorite pizza flavors without the carbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Diabetic-Friendly
# Ingredients:
→ The Savory Base
01 -
1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
03 -
1/2 large yellow onion, diced
04 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
06 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
07 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Rich & Tangy Layers
08 -
1 3/4 cups low-carb marinara sauce
09 -
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
10 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
11 -
1/2 cup full-fat ricotta cheese
→ Classic Pizza Toppings
12 -
3 oz sliced pepperoni
13 -
1/2 green bell pepper, diced
14 -
1/2 cup sliced black olives
15 -
1 cup sliced mushrooms
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This initial step ensures your Delicious Low Carb Pizza Casserole You Can Make Tonight cooks evenly and doesn't stick, making cleanup easier after enjoying this hearty meal.
02 -
In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in 1/2 large yellow onion (diced) and 2 cloves garlic (minced), cooking until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
03 -
To the beef mixture, add 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional), and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in 1 3/4 cups low-carb marinara sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat. This forms the flavorful base for your Delicious Low Carb Pizza Casserole You Can Make Tonight.
04 -
In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup full-fat ricotta cheese and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Stir in 1 cup of the 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese until well combined. This creamy blend will add a delightful texture and richness to the casserole.
05 -
Spread half of the seasoned beef and marinara mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Top this with the entire ricotta cheese mixture, carefully spreading it to cover the beef layer. This creates a robust foundation for your Delicious Low Carb Pizza Casserole You Can Make Tonight.
06 -
Arrange 3 oz sliced pepperoni over the ricotta layer. Scatter 1/2 green bell pepper (diced), 1/2 cup sliced black olives, and 1 cup sliced mushrooms evenly over the pepperoni. These classic pizza toppings bring vibrant flavors and textures.
07 -
Cover the toppings with the remaining half of the beef and marinara mixture. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
08 -
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to portion and ensuring every bite is perfect.
# Notes:
01 -
Make Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
02 -
Customization Ideas: Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage. Add your favorite low-carb pizza toppings like spinach, banana peppers, or extra bell peppers.
03 -
Storage & Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
04 -
Serving Suggestion: Serve this hearty casserole with a simple green salad or some steamed low-carb vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet
02 -
9x13 inch baking dish
03 -
Spatula
04 -
Measuring cups and spoons
05 -
Cutting board
06 -
Knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 596 kcal
Total Fat: 42 g
Total Carbohydrate: 10 g
Protein: 48 g