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: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian-American
Dietary: Diabetic-Friendly
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Base
01 -
1 lb lean ground beef
02 -
1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
03 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
1 1/2 cups low-carb marinara sauce
05 -
1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
06 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Melted Cheesy Layers
07 -
2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
08 -
1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
09 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Classic Pizza Toppings
10 -
3 oz sliced pepperoni
11 -
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
12 -
1 cup sliced mushrooms
13 -
1/2 cup sliced black olives
→ Finishing Flourish
14 -
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This initial step sets the stage for your Delicious Low Carb Pizza Casserole You Can Make Tonight, ensuring even cooking and easy cleanup.
02 -
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown 1 lb lean ground beef, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat. Add 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced, and 2 cloves garlic, minced; cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
03 -
Stir in 1 1/2 cups low-carb marinara sauce and 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning to the beef mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, then cook for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld for your Delicious Low Carb Pizza Casserole You Can Make Tonight.
04 -
In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until smooth. This creamy mixture will add a delightful texture to your Delicious Low Carb Pizza Casserole You Can Make Tonight.
05 -
Spread half of the beef sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese and dollops of the ricotta-Parmesan mixture.
06 -
Layer with half of the 3 oz sliced pepperoni, 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper, 1 cup sliced mushrooms, and 1/2 cup sliced black olives. Repeat all previous layers (beef sauce, cheeses, and toppings) with the remaining ingredients.
07 -
Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. This ensures a perfectly cooked Delicious Low Carb Pizza Casserole You Can Make Tonight.
08 -
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set. Garnish with 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped, for a vibrant finish.
# Notes:
01 -
Feel free to customize your toppings! Add cooked sausage, spinach, or different bell pepper colors. Just ensure any high-moisture veggies are pre-sautéed to prevent a watery casserole.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
03 -
For a complete meal, serve this hearty casserole with a simple side salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. It also pairs well with steamed green beans.
04 -
To get a really golden, bubbly top, you can briefly broil the casserole for the last 1-2 minutes after removing the foil, but watch it carefully to prevent burning.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet
02 -
9x13 inch baking dish
03 -
Measuring cups
04 -
Measuring spoons
05 -
Cutting board
06 -
Knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 633 kcal
Total Fat: 43 g
Total Carbohydrate: 11 g
Protein: 51 g