Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in the kitchen, the aroma of sizzling Italian sausage wafted through the air, immediately transporting me to my favorite pizzeria. What if I could recreate that comforting experience right at home, and all without the carbs? Enter the Easy Low Carb Pizza Casserole, a delightful dish that brings all the flavors you love about pizza into a healthier, family-friendly recipe. With melty cheese and zesty marinara sauce layered beautifully, this casserole is not only simple to prepare but also easily customizable to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, you’ll love how quickly this meal comes together, allowing you to ditch the takeout without sacrificing taste. Curious to discover how to make this mouthwatering dish? Let’s dive in! Why is This Low Carb Pizza Casserole a Must-Try? Convenient and Quick: This dish is a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you’re craving something hearty without the hassle. Customization at its Finest: Everyone can add their favorite toppings, from olives to extra cheese, ensuring each bite is exactly what you desire. Satisfying Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage, melty mozzarella, and zesty marinara creates a delicious profile that rivals your favorite pizza. Healthy Choice: Enjoy all the pizza flavors without the carbs, making it a keto-friendly option the whole family can relish. Pair it with a crisp garden salad or, for something extra indulgent, try some Sub Tub Low. This casserole is a game-changer! Low Carb Pizza Casserole Ingredients For the Base • Cauliflower – Acts as the low-carb foundation, replacing traditional pasta; ensure it’s well-drained and dry for the best texture. For the Protein • Italian Sausage – Provides rich flavor and high protein; substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For the Veggies • Mushrooms – Add a burst of umami and texture; sauté to reduce moisture before incorporating. • Green Peppers – Contribute sweetness and crunch; feel free to swap for any bell pepper color or zucchini for added low-carb goodness. For the Sauce • Low-Carb Marinara Sauce – Keeps the dish flavorful while avoiding excess sugar; opt for a thick, quality sauce for the best results. For the Toppings • Pepperoni – Classic pizza topping for added flavor; can replace with salami or omit for a vegetarian twist. • Mozzarella Cheese – Ensures a melty, gooey texture; use a blend for a variety of flavors. • Parmesan Cheese – Adds a sharp flavor; can be omitted or substituted with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. For Seasoning • Italian Seasoning – Enhances the aromatic flavor profile of the dish, making it truly irresistible. Enjoy making this Low Carb Pizza Casserole with these fantastic ingredients! Step-by-Step Instructions for Low Carb Pizza Casserole Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial as it ensures an evenly baked Low Carb Pizza Casserole. Prepare your favorite casserole dish while you wait for the oven to reach the desired temperature, creating an inviting atmosphere as the aroma of Italian spices fills your kitchen. Step 2: Prep the Cauliflower Cut the cauliflower into small florets. Steam in a microwave-safe bowl for about 3 minutes until tender; you want them soft but firm enough to hold their shape. After steaming, drain thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, setting the stage for a great base for your casserole. Step 3: Cook the Sausage In a large skillet, add Italian sausage over medium-high heat and cook for approximately 15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sausage is browned and cooked all the way through. Once done, drain the excess fat to keep your casserole from becoming greasy and enhance the overall flavor of the Low Carb Pizza Casserole. Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms Using the same skillet, add your sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 10 minutes until they are golden brown and their moisture has reduced. This step deepens the flavor profile and prepares the mushrooms perfectly for the casserole, ensuring every bite of your Low Carb Pizza Casserole is packed with deliciousness. Step 5: Assemble the Layers In your prepared casserole dish, spread ½ cup of low-carb marinara sauce evenly across the bottom. Layer half of your cooked cauliflower, followed by the Italian sausage, sautéed mushrooms, and green peppers. Add more marinara sauce and then top everything generously with shredded mozzarella cheese to create a cheesy, flavorful foundation. Step 6: Complete the Layering Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients, starting with the cauliflower, then adding another layer of sausage, mushrooms, green peppers, sauce, and mozzarella cheese. This will ensure that each serving of your Low Carb Pizza Casserole is filled with flavor, providing a delightful taste in every mouthful. Step 7: Season and Add Pepperoni In a small bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese with Italian seasoning. Sprinkle this aromatic blend over the top of your assembled casserole for an extra kick of flavor. If using, add the reserved pepperoni slices atop for a classic pizza touch that complements the overall dish beautifully. Step 8: Bake to Perfection Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. Look for the cheese to melt and the sauce to bubble vigorously, indicating that your Low Carb Pizza Casserole is coming together beautifully. The enticing aroma will fill your home, heightening the anticipation of a fantastic meal. Step 9: Cool and Serve Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors meld together and ensures the casserole holds its shape when cut. Slice into portions and enjoy the rich, satisfying flavors of your homemade Low Carb Pizza Casserole with family and friends! How to Store and Freeze Low Carb Pizza Casserole Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. As the flavors deepen, this dish tastes even better the next day. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze before baking for up to 3 months. If you have leftovers post-cooking, they can be frozen for up to 2 months as well. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat in the microwave or oven until hot and bubbly. This keeps the Low Carb Pizza Casserole delicious and satisfying! Wrapping: Ensure the casserole is covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil before freezing to prevent freezer burn and preserve flavor. Low Carb Pizza Casserole Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with this delightful casserole; the options are truly endless and will ignite your taste buds! Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the milk. Zesty Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to crank up the heat a notch—perfect for fans of spicy foods. Meat Lovers: Mix in cooked ground beef or shredded chicken alongside the sausage for a robust flavor explosion. Extra Veggies: Consider adding in spinach or zucchini noodles for added nutrients and texture, making your casserole even heartier. Herb Infusion: Swap Italian seasoning for fresh basil or oregano for a fragrant twist that brightens the overall flavor. Savory Layers: Introduce artichokes or sun-dried tomatoes for an upscale twist that plays with sweet and savory notes. Gluten-Free Alternative: For a gluten-free version, ensure your marinara sauce is free from added sugars or preservatives. For more delicious variations, check out our Tzatziki Chicken Pizza for fresh ideas, or explore the comforting flavors of Slow Cooker Salisbury for a heartwarming meal. Each twist not only enhances your casserole but also provides an opportunity for family members to enjoy their favorites! Make Ahead Options These Easy Low Carb Pizza Casserole preparations are perfect for time-strapped home cooks! You can chop and steam the cauliflower and sauté the mushrooms up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, prepare the sausage and let it cool before refrigerating for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your casserole, simply layer the prepped ingredients in your dish, adding sauce and cheese as instructed, then bake according to the recipe. Not only will this save you time on busy weeknights, but you’ll still achieve that just-baked, delicious quality everyone loves! What to Serve with Easy Low Carb Pizza Casserole Enhance your delightful pizza experience with these delicious pairings, perfect for rounding out your meal. Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad offers a refreshing crunch and balances the cheesy richness of the casserole with vibrant vegetables. Toss in a simple vinaigrette for extra zing! Garlic Keto Breadsticks: Pairing with keto-friendly garlic breadsticks satisfies that traditional pizza craving, providing a savory bite ideal for dipping in sauce. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These flavorful, caramelized sprouts add a delightful crunch, bringing a touch of earthiness that complements the casserole beautifully. Zucchini Noodles: For a light twist, serve a side of zoodles lightly sautéed in garlic; their delicate texture elevates the meal without adding carbs. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad lends a creamy texture and tangy flavor, providing contrast while keeping with the low-carb theme. Sparkling Water with Lemon: Stay refreshed with a crisp sparkling water accented with lemon; it cleanses the palate between bites and enhances the meal’s overall experience. Chocolate Avocado Mousse: End on a sweet note with a light, creamy dessert that’s rich in flavor yet low in carbs, making it the perfect finish without the guilt! Helpful Tricks for Low Carb Pizza Casserole Quality Marinara Matters: Use a thick, quality low-carb marinara sauce to prevent excess moisture. Watery sauces will lead to a soggy casserole, so choose wisely! Dry Cauliflower Well: After steaming, thoroughly drain and pat dry your cauliflower to avoid adding unwanted water. A dry base is essential for the perfect Low Carb Pizza Casserole texture. Layer Thoughtfully: To create a balanced flavor in each bite, layer your ingredients evenly. This ensures that sausage, veggies, and cheese are harmoniously distributed, enhancing the overall taste. Watch the Cheese: If broiling for the last few minutes, stay close. Cheese can burn quickly; you want that golden brown bubbling without overdoing it. Rest Before Serving: Letting the casserole cool for 10 minutes after baking helps the flavors meld and ensures cleaner slices. This simple step elevates your serving experience! Low Carb Pizza Casserole Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe cauliflower for the casserole? When choosing cauliflower, look for heads that are solid, heavy, and have tight, compact florets. The color should be bright white or creamy, with no dark spots or blemishes. If you see any brown spots or a strong odor, it’s best to choose another one! How should I store leftover Low Carb Pizza Casserole? After you’ve enjoyed your Low Carb Pizza Casserole, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If it has been properly sealed, you may find that the flavors meld together beautifully after sitting for a day or two! Can I freeze my Low Carb Pizza Casserole? Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before baking for up to 3 months. To do so, assemble the casserole in your dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and then foil. For leftovers, wait until it cools completely before freezing, which you can do for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, bake directly from frozen! What if my casserole comes out watery? If you find that your Low Carb Pizza Casserole is watery, it could be due to excess moisture from the cauliflower or sauce. To prevent this, be sure to drain and dry the cauliflower well after steaming. Using a thick, quality marinara sauce also helps maintain the casserole’s texture. If it’s too late, try letting it rest after baking to allow excess liquid to evaporate before serving. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Definitely! If you have allergies, be cautious with the Italian sausage, as it may contain fillers or allergens. Additionally, for those avoiding dairy, substitute mozzarella and Parmesan with non-dairy cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for a similar flavor. This recipe is certainly customizable to accommodate various dietary needs! What toppings can I use to customize my Low Carb Pizza Casserole? The more the merrier when it comes to toppings! You can add anything from black olives and spinach to cooked chicken or bell peppers. If you’re feeling adventurous, even artichokes or sun-dried tomatoes will provide wonderful flavors! Embrace your creativity to make this casserole your own. Low Carb Pizza Casserole: A Family-Friendly Delight A delicious Low Carb Pizza Casserole that captures the flavors of pizza without the carbs, perfect for a family-friendly meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 6 slicesCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base1 head Cauliflower Well-drained and dry for the best textureFor the Protein1 pound Italian Sausage Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter optionFor the Veggies1 cup Mushrooms Sautéed to reduce moisture1 cup Green Peppers Can substitute with any bell pepper color or zucchiniFor the Sauce1 cup Low-Carb Marinara Sauce Opt for a thick, quality sauceFor the Toppings1 cup Pepperoni Omit for a vegetarian version2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Shredded, use a blend for variety1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Can substitute with nutritional yeast for dairy-free optionFor Seasoning1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Equipment OvenCasserole DishSkilletMicrowave-safe bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare your casserole dish.Cut the cauliflower into small florets and steam for about 3 minutes until tender. Drain and pat dry.Cook the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 15 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat.Sauté sliced mushrooms in the same skillet for about 10 minutes until golden brown.Spread ½ cup of marinara sauce in the prepared casserole dish and layer half of the cooked cauliflower, followed by sausage, mushrooms, and green peppers. Add more marinara and top with mozzarella.Repeat layering with remaining ingredients.Mix Parmesan with Italian seasoning and sprinkle over the casserole. Top with reserved pepperoni if using.Bake in the oven for about 30 minutes until cheese is melted and sauce is bubbling.Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesUse a thick, quality marinara sauce to prevent excess moisture. Ensure the cauliflower is well-drained and patted dry for the best texture. Layer ingredients thoughtfully for balanced flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
