Cheesy Low Carb Pizza Bowl

This crustless pizza bowl has completely changed my low-carb game, delivering all the flavors of traditional pizza without the carb-heavy crust. Perfect for keto dieters or anyone looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake while still enjoying the comfort of pizza night.

I first created this dish during a challenging weight loss journey when pizza cravings hit hard. Now it's become my Thursday night tradition—all the satisfaction of pizza night with none of the carb crash afterward.

Ingredients

• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Forms the gooey foundation that holds everything together while providing that authentic pizza experience
• Marinara sauce: Preferably sugar-free to keep carbs low; look for brands with under 5g carbs per serving
• Cooked ground sausage: Adds hearty protein and classic pizza flavor; choose Italian seasoned for best results
• Pepperoni slices: Create that authentic pizza experience; opt for nitrate-free versions for a healthier option
• Diced bell pepper: Adds color, crunch and nutrients without significant carbs
• Sliced black olives: Provide Mediterranean flavor and healthy fats
• Dried oregano: Essential for authentic pizza flavor; use fresh if available by doubling the amount
• Garlic powder: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor without the need for fresh garlic
• Salt and pepper: The basics that bring all flavors together
• Fresh basil or parsley: Optional garnish that elevates the final presentation

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Begin by heating your oven to 375°F. This moderate temperature allows the cheese to melt perfectly without burning. While waiting for the oven to reach temperature, take a moment to lightly grease your baking dish. A small ceramic or glass bowl works wonderfully as it contains the ingredients perfectly while allowing even heat distribution.

Prepare the Pizza Base:

Spread the shredded mozzarella evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. This cheese layer serves as your crust substitute and will transform into a golden, stretchy foundation once baked. For best results, use a low-moisture mozzarella that melts beautifully without releasing too much liquid.

Add the Sauce and Toppings:

Carefully spoon your marinara sauce over the cheese base, leaving some edges visible for that classic pizza look. Then arrange your cooked sausage, pepperoni slices, bell peppers, and olives across the sauce. The key here is balancing your toppings so each bite delivers the perfect combination of flavors. Feel free to add more cheese on top if you prefer a cheesier pizza experience.

Season:

Sprinkle oregano and garlic powder evenly across the surface, followed by a light dusting of salt and freshly cracked black pepper. These seasonings bring authentic Italian pizzeria flavors to your creation. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a slight heat.

Bake:

Place your creation in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes. Watch for the cheese to become completely melted with slightly golden edges and the toppings to look hot and glistening. These visual cues indicate your pizza bowl has reached perfection.

Garnish and Serve:

Allow your masterpiece to cool slightly for about one minute; this prevents burning your mouth while still serving it at the ideal temperature. Sprinkle with torn fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley for a professional finishing touch that adds brightness to both flavor and appearance.

The marinara sauce is truly the heart of this recipe. I discovered that spending a few extra dollars on quality tomato sauce made an enormous difference in the final flavor. My family particularly loves when I add a pinch of fennel seeds to the mix which adds an authentic Italian sausage pizza aroma throughout the kitchen.

Make It Your Own

This pizza bowl concept welcomes endless variations. Try a Hawaiian version with diced ham and pineapple chunks or go Mediterranean with feta cheese, spinach, and kalamata olives. For meat lovers, combine bacon, pepperoni, sausage, and ground beef with extra cheese. Vegetarians can load up on mushrooms, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and spinach for a garden delight version.

Perfect Pairings

Complete your low carb meal with a simple side salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar. The fresh, crisp textures complement the warm, melty pizza bowl perfectly. If you have room in your carb count, a glass of dry red wine makes an excellent accompaniment. For a family meal, consider serving with vegetable sticks and a side of ranch dipping sauce for the kids.

Storage and Reheating

These pizza bowls store surprisingly well. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until hot throughout. Avoid microwave reheating if possible as it can make the cheese rubbery rather than maintaining that desirable melty texture. These bowls also freeze beautifully for up to one month; just thaw overnight before reheating.

With this crustless pizza bowl, you can enjoy all the cheesy, comforting flavors of pizza while staying true to your low-carb lifestyle. It's satisfying, delicious, and endlessly customizable!

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this pizza bowl ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time, but it's best to assemble and bake just before serving for the freshest taste and texture. If needed, you can assemble earlier in the day, refrigerate, and bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What are the best low-carb marinara sauce options?

Look for marinara sauces labeled as sugar-free or keto-friendly. Brands like Rao's, Primal Kitchen, and Yo Mama's Foods offer great low-carb options. Always check the nutrition label - aim for sauces with fewer than 5g of carbs per serving.

→ How many carbs are in this pizza bowl?

The exact carb count depends on your specific ingredients, but this dish typically contains 5-8g net carbs per serving. The marinara sauce contributes most of the carbs, so choose a low-sugar option to minimize the carb content.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute the mozzarella with dairy-free cheese alternatives made from almond, cashew, or coconut bases. Be aware that the melting properties may differ, and check the carb content as some plant-based cheeses contain added starches.

→ What sides pair well with a pizza bowl?

For a complete low-carb meal, pair with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar, roasted vegetables like zucchini or broccoli, or a side of garlic butter cauliflower rice. If carbs aren't a concern, garlic bread makes a traditional accompaniment.

→ How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

Watch the pizza bowl closely while baking. If you notice the cheese browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the remaining cook time. Using a slightly lower temperature (350°F) and placing the bowl on a middle rack can also help prevent burning.