When those pizza cravings hit but you’re watching your carbs, this Low Carb Pizza Casserole saves the day. It’s a bubbling, cheesy skillet of comfort — loaded with seasoned meat, rich marinara, and gooey mozzarella that gives you all the pizza satisfaction with none of the guilt.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Pizza
If you love classic pizza flavors but need a lighter option, this casserole will quickly become a weeknight favorite. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly simple to make.
- Perfect low-carb dinner alternative to traditional pizza
- Ready in just 30 minutes
- Packed with protein and cheesy goodness
- Customizable with your favorite pizza toppings
- Great for meal prep or freezing leftovers
- Family-approved flavor that satisfies everyone
I first came up with this one on a busy Friday night when takeout wasn’t an option. I wanted pizza flavor without the heavy crust, and this casserole was born. It’s now a staple at home — right alongside my Low-Carb Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli and Keto Chicken Enchiladas Casserole. It’s simple, hearty, and full of that nostalgic pizza comfort I grew up loving in Texas.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe layers seasoned meat, vegetables, and cheese for a mouthwatering low-carb bake that’s bursting with flavor.
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey – the flavorful, protein-packed base
- 1 small onion, chopped – adds sweetness and depth
- 1 bell pepper, chopped – classic pizza flavor and color
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms – brings earthiness to the mix
- 2 cups marinara sauce (low carb) – look for sugar-free versions
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese – for gooey stretch and flavor
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds savory richness
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – infuses subtle aromatic flavor
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – gives authentic pizza taste
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a hint of heat
- Salt and pepper, to taste – enhances all the layers
- ½ cup sliced pepperoni (optional) – adds that classic pizzeria touch
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing and moisture
Optional Add-Ons or Substitutes
- Swap beef for ground chicken for a leaner version
- Use zucchini slices as layers for extra veggies
- Try ricotta cheese for a creamier texture
- Add spinach or black olives for Mediterranean flavor
- Use Turkey pepperoni for a lighter topping
- Substitute homemade tomato sauce if you prefer fresh flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
This low-carb casserole is as easy as browning, layering, and baking — no dough, no fuss, just delicious comfort.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the meat and veggies. Heat olive oil in a skillet, add onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened. Add ground beef (or turkey), breaking it apart until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Season and mix. Stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Add the mushrooms and cook until tender.
- Add the sauce. Pour in the low-carb marinara sauce, stirring to combine. Simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Assemble the casserole. Spread half of the meat mixture in the baking dish, sprinkle half the mozzarella and Parmesan, then add the rest of the meat mixture. Finish with the remaining cheese and top with pepperoni.
- Bake and serve. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Quick Reminders
- Use sugar-free marinara for fewer carbs.
- Don’t overcook — bake just until cheese is golden.
- Let it rest a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil for color and freshness.
Expert Tips for Success
To get that perfect pizza-style bake with gooey cheese and rich flavor, keep these pro tips in mind.
- Brown the meat well for deep flavor.
- Drain excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming watery.
- Add a pinch of fennel seed for authentic pizza aroma.
- Use part-skim mozzarella if you prefer a lighter dish.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before cutting to hold shape.
- Store sauce in small portions to control moisture when reheating.
- For crisp edges, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.
This one reminded me of my first attempts at “pizza pasta bakes” years ago — back before I figured out how to keep that cheesy pull without loading up on carbs. It’s since become one of my most requested recipes, right up there with my One-Pan Butter Parmesan Pasta.
Serving Suggestions
This low-carb pizza casserole is versatile and pairs beautifully with fresh sides.
- Serve with a crisp Caesar salad for balance
- Add a side of Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Fries for crunch
- Pair with Roasted Tomato Soup for cozy nights
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for a restaurant-style finish
- Serve with a small side of low-carb garlic bread
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or make-ahead lunches
This dish brings all the flavors of pizza night — just without the crust.
Storing and Reheating
This casserole is great for leftovers and meal prep — it reheats beautifully.
How to Store It
- Cool completely before storing
- Keep in an airtight container
- Refrigerate up to 4 days
- Freeze in portions for up to 3 months
- Label and date containers for easy access
How to Reheat It
- Oven: 350°F for 10–12 minutes, covered with foil
- Microwave: 1–2 minutes per serving (cover to retain moisture)
- Air fryer: 350°F for 5 minutes for a crispy top
- Stovetop: Reheat in a covered skillet until warmed through
The sauce keeps the meat tender and the cheese stays creamy — it’s just as good the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Just bake when ready to eat.
Can I use sausage instead of beef?
Absolutely! Italian sausage adds a great kick — just make sure it’s low-carb.
What’s the best marinara to use?
Choose one labeled “no sugar added” or make your own to control carbs.
Final Thoughts
This Low Carb Pizza Casserole is proof that you can enjoy all the flavors of a classic pizza night without the carbs. It’s easy, cheesy, and comforting — the kind of dinner that keeps everyone happy around the table.
- Keep it low-carb with sugar-free marinara
- Let it rest before serving for perfect slices
- Customize your toppings to make it your own
Whether you’re cutting carbs or just want a cozy, family-friendly meal, this casserole is pure cheesy satisfaction baked in one dish.
Cheesy Low Carb Pizza Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and bell pepper until softened.
- Add ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and mushrooms. Cook until mushrooms are tender.
- Add marinara sauce and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Layer half the meat mixture in the baking dish, top with half the mozzarella and Parmesan, then repeat layers. Top with pepperoni if using.
- Bake for 20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use sugar-free marinara sauce to minimize carbs.
- Swap regular pepperoni for turkey pepperoni to keep it lighter.
- Optional additions like ricotta or spinach can add variety without breaking your macros.
