Keto Pizza Casserole Bake

This Keto Pizza Casserole brings all the best parts of pizza to your dinner table without the carb hangover I made this recipe on a busy weeknight craving comfort but mindful of my goals and it became an instant family favorite even for the pickiest eaters

The first time I made this was during a game night with friends and not a single slice was left after dinner Everyone begged for the recipe

Ingredients

• Cream cheese: gives the crust richness and a soft bite use full-fat for the best flavor
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts into the crust and topping buy block cheese and shred it yourself for a meltier stretch
• Baking powder: helps add lightness to the almond flour crust
• Large eggs: bind the dough and add a fluffy texture choose fresh eggs for a smoother blend
• Almond flour: keeps the crust keto friendly and gives mild nuttiness look for blanched almond flour for best results
• Italian seasoning: brings classic pizza flavors and aroma choose a mix with oregano and basil
• Ground beef: provides hearty protein pick 80 percent lean for juiciness
• Italian sausage: delivers robust flavor and a spicy kick use mild or hot based on your taste
• Mini pepperoni: adds fun classic pizza vibes seek out ones without added sugars
• Minced garlic: creates aroma and depth peel and chop fresh cloves for maximum flavor
• Marinara sauce: ties everything together opt for a sugar-free low-carb jarred version or homemade sauce
• Extra mozzarella cheese: gives you that traditional gooey pizza topping
• Salt and black pepper: heighten the savory flavors use freshly cracked black pepper for more kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit so everything bakes evenly and develop a beautiful golden top

Make the Cheese Dough:

Microwave cream cheese and two cups of shredded mozzarella in a microwave safe bowl for about one minute then stir until completely smooth The warmth helps the cheese blend for a seamless crust

Add Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Mix in three large eggs baking powder Italian seasoning and almond flour into the melted cheese mixture Stir until it forms a uniform sticky dough which will hold together as it bakes

Line and Press Crust:

Line a nine by thirteen baking dish with parchment paper Press dough evenly across the bottom and sides to form your keto pizza crust Chill in the refrigerator for ten minutes to firm up

Cook the Meat:

Brown the ground beef and Italian sausage together in a large skillet over medium heat breaking up the meat as it cooks until no pink remains Drain off any excess fat so the casserole does not get greasy

Add Fillings:

Stir minced garlic mini pepperoni almond flour and Italian seasoning into the cooked meat Sauté until fragrant and everything is well-mixed spreading the flavors through the filling

Simmer in Marinara:

Pour in three cups of marinara sauce over the meat mixture Bring to a gentle simmer then season with salt and fresh black pepper The sauce should bubble softly which thickens it and deepens flavor

Assemble the Casserole:

Spread the saucy meat filling evenly in your prepared baking dish Sprinkle two cups of shredded mozzarella over the meat layer for that classic cheesy pizza top

Top with Crust:

Carefully lay your chilled crust over the filling pressing down gently if needed to fit the baking dish Cover the filling edge to edge

Bake:

Place the assembled casserole on the center oven rack Bake for twenty to twenty-five minutes until the crust turns golden the cheese bubbles and the entire casserole feels set through

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My favorite part of this dish is the mozzarella cheese topping When it pulls into strings with every bite it brings back childhood pizza nights with my family making laughter the best seasoning When my kids join in to add pepperoni it feels like pizza night memories made healthier

Storage Tips

This casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to four days Store it in a tightly covered dish or portion out into single servings for easy lunch reheats It also freezes up to two months For best texture reheat in the oven rather than the microwave

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or ground chicken can swap in for beef and sausage For vegetarians use a plant-based meat substitute Choose your favorite pizza cheese if mozzarella is not on hand or add other toppings like olives or green peppers

Serving Suggestions

Cut generous squares and serve with a crisp side salad for a full meal For a party cut into smaller pieces for easy appetizers Garlic roasted broccoli or sautéed spinach make perfect veggie sides Serve warm with extra marinara for dipping

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Pizza Casserole in Context

Keto pizza casserole draws inspiration from classic American casserole dishes and the beloved flavors of Italian American pizza Comfort food evolves to meet dietary needs and this dish proves you never have to sacrifice taste for health It fits right in at family gatherings just like traditional pizza would

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I ensure the crust is firm and not soggy?

Chilling the pressed dough before baking helps set the crust and prevents sogginess. Make sure your filling isn’t too wet and avoid overloading with marinara sauce.

→ Can I substitute almond flour with another low-carb flour?

Coconut flour can be used, but adjust the amount since it absorbs more moisture. Start with a third of the almond flour amount and increase if needed.

→ What other meats work well in this casserole?

Try ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for different flavors while keeping the casserole low in carbohydrates.

→ Is fresh mozzarella better than pre-shredded?

Fresh mozzarella offers a creamier melt, while pre-shredded is convenient and melts evenly. Both work well, so it’s based on preference.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Cool thoroughly, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot and bubbly.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, assemble and bake, then cool completely. Wrap well and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.