Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl

This crustless pizza bowl has become my go-to solution for satisfying pizza cravings without the carbs. The rich flavors of traditional pizza come together in a convenient bowl format that keeps me on track with my low-carb lifestyle while delivering all the satisfaction of the real thing.

I first created this recipe during a particularly strict phase of my keto journey when I was desperately missing pizza. After experimenting with cauliflower crusts that never quite hit the mark, this bowl version became an instant family favorite that even my carb loving teenagers request regularly.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: Creates the perfect base for sautéing and adds a touch of Mediterranean flavor
• Ground beef or Italian sausage: Provides hearty protein and satisfying texture
• Garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning: Recreate authentic pizza flavor without extra prep
• Sugar free marinara sauce: Look for brands with under 5g carbs per serving for best results
• Mozzarella cheese: Use freshly shredded for best melting quality instead of pre packaged
• Mushrooms, bell peppers, and olives: Add texture and nutrients without significant carbs
• Pepperoni slices: Choose uncured varieties for fewer preservatives
• Parmesan cheese: Adds that umami depth that makes pizza so satisfying
• Fresh herbs: Brighten the finished dish with color and flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Meat Base:

Heat your olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add ground beef or Italian sausage and break it into small crumbles using a wooden spoon. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until completely browned with no pink remaining. Drain excess fat by tilting the pan and using the spoon to hold back the meat.

Season to Perfection:

While the meat is still hot, sprinkle in all the dried seasonings. The warm meat allows the dried herbs and spices to bloom and release their flavors. Stir continuously for 60 seconds to prevent any garlic powder from burning while ensuring even distribution throughout the meat.

Create Your Bowls:

Select oven safe bowls about 6 inches in diameter and 2 inches deep. Distribute the seasoned meat mixture evenly between bowls, pressing gently to create a solid base. Spoon the marinara sauce over the meat, spreading it to the edges to prevent the meat from drying out during baking.

Layer Your Toppings:

Begin with a generous layer of mozzarella covering the sauce completely. Arrange your vegetables and pepperoni in an appealing pattern, making sure to distribute ingredients evenly throughout the bowl rather than just on top. Finish with a light dusting of Parmesan cheese which will create a beautiful golden crust.

Bake to Bubbly Perfection:

Place the prepared bowls on a baking sheet to catch any potential overflow. Bake in your preheated oven keeping a close eye after 8 minutes. You want the cheese completely melted with small golden brown spots beginning to appear. The edges should be slightly bubbling when done.

Garnish and Serve:

Allow bowls to cool for 3 to 5 minutes before handling. Tear fresh basil leaves or sprinkle chopped parsley over the top just before serving to add brightness to the rich flavors. Serve with a small side salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar for a complete meal.

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This recipe saved my sanity during the early days of my low carb journey. The marinara sauce is truly the heart of this dish. I recommend spending a little extra on a quality sugar free variety or making your own with roasted tomatoes for the deepest flavor profile.

Meal Prep Magic

These pizza bowls are ideal for batch cooking. Prepare several at once, bake them, and then refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave for 2 minutes or place in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes. The flavors actually develop and improve after a day, making the leftovers sometimes better than the original!

Substitution Solutions

For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with a mixture of finely chopped mushrooms and walnuts sautéed with the same seasonings. This creates a surprisingly meaty texture while keeping the dish low carb. Dairy free alternatives work well here too just be sure to check carb counts on plant based cheese products as some contain added starches.

Family Dinner Strategy

Turn this into an interactive family dinner by creating a pizza bowl bar. Prepare the meat base and sauce, then let everyone customize their own bowls with preferred toppings. This approach works beautifully for households with different dietary needs or picky eaters. Children especially love being involved in creating their own meals.

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The perfect solution to pizza cravings in a low-carb lifestyle, these pizza bowls deliver endless customization and rich flavor in every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different meats for the pizza bowl?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a leaner or vegetarian option.

→ What are some additional toppings I can add?

Feel free to include onions, spinach, zucchini, or your favorite vegetables. You can also swap or add cured meats like bacon bits or salami.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well, such as almond or cashew-based cheese options.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pizza bowls and refrigerate them. When ready to eat, bake them fresh at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until heated through and bubbly.

→ Is this dish suitable for a ketogenic diet?

Absolutely! The low-carb ingredients like sugar-free marinara and high-fat cheese make it a great fit for keto meal plans.

→ How do I prevent the pizza bowls from being watery?

Ensure you drain any excess grease from the cooked meat and pat dry any watery vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini before adding them.