Low Carb Pizza Casserole

This bubbling low-carb pizza casserole delivers all the nostalgic flavors of your favorite pizza without the carb overload. Each bite combines savory Italian sausage, pepperoni, and vegetables in a glorious cheese pull that satisfies even the most dedicated pizza lovers while keeping things keto-friendly.

I created this recipe during my first month of low-carb eating when pizza cravings nearly broke my resolve. Now my husband requests it weekly claiming it's better than delivery pizza because he can enjoy seconds without the carb crash afterward.

Ingredients

• Italian sausage: Forms the hearty protein base; choose bulk sausage or remove casings from links for easy browning
• Cauliflower: Replaces traditional pasta or crust, providing texture while cutting carbs dramatically
• Mushrooms: Add meaty umami flavor and substantial texture; slice them evenly for consistent cooking
• Green pepper: Brings fresh crunch and classic pizza flavor; dice uniformly for even distribution
• Low carb pasta sauce: Provides essential tomato flavor without added sugars; Raos brand contains only 4g carbs per serving
• Mozzarella cheese: Creates that essential stretchy pizza experience; use freshly shredded for best melting
• Pepperoni: Delivers classic pizza flavor and crispy texture; look for uncured varieties for fewer preservatives
• Parmesan: Adds salty depth to the casserole; freshly grated provides superior flavor
• Italian seasoning: Infuses the dish with authentic herb notes; check your blend for freshness before using

How To Make Low Carb Pizza Casserole

Prepare the cauliflower:

Microwave cauliflower florets with water for precisely 3 minutes until just tender but still maintaining some firmness. This quick cooking method preserves texture while ensuring the cauliflower won't release excess water into your casserole. After microwaving, thoroughly pat dry to prevent a watery final dish.

Brown the sausage:

Cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it into small, uniform crumbles as it browns. This takes about 15 minutes to ensure proper caramelization which builds rich flavor. Drain thoroughly to remove excess fat which could make your casserole greasy.

Sauté the mushrooms:

Cook sliced mushrooms in olive oil for a full 10 minutes, allowing them to release and then reabsorb their moisture. This concentrates their flavor and prevents them from making the casserole soggy. Look for golden edges which indicate proper caramelization.

Layer the casserole:

Create alternating layers of the meat, vegetable mixture, sauce, cheese, and pepperoni, starting with a thin sauce base. Press each layer firmly but gently to create a cohesive casserole without compacting ingredients too densely. Strategic placement of pepperoni ensures every serving gets this classic pizza element.

Add the finishing touches:

Combine Parmesan and Italian seasoning for the final sprinkle which creates a flavorful crust during baking. Reserve some pepperoni for the very top layer where they will become perfectly crisp during baking, adding textural contrast.

Bake to perfection:

Bake at 400°F for exactly 30 minutes until the casserole is bubbling at the edges and the cheese develops golden brown spots. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and make slicing easier.

Pin it

My absolute favorite ingredient in this casserole is the Italian sausage which reminds me of the neighborhood pizzeria from my childhood. The first time I served this to my Italian grandmother she asked for the recipe which might be the greatest culinary compliment I've ever received.

Make Ahead and Storage

This casserole shines as a meal prep option. You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours before baking; just cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to cook, remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes prior to allow it to come to room temperature before baking. This ensures even cooking throughout the casserole.

Leftovers store beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2 minutes or until heated through. For a crisper top, reheat in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes. The flavors actually improve after a day as the ingredients have time to meld together.

Pin it

Customize Your Casserole

Think of this recipe as your canvas for pizza creativity. Love olives? Toss in a handful of sliced black olives between layers. Craving heat? Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños. For a supreme version, include diced onions and Canadian bacon.

For those avoiding dairy, you can substitute dairy-free cheeses, though they won't melt quite as well as traditional mozzarella. If you're cutting calories rather than carbs, use turkey Italian sausage and part-skim mozzarella for a lighter version that still delivers on flavor.

Serving Suggestions

While this casserole stands perfectly well on its own, consider pairing it with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice for a complete meal. The brightness of the salad provides pleasant contrast to the rich casserole.

For those not strictly following low-carb guidelines, garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment. If maintaining keto, consider serving alongside roasted broccoli or zucchini noodles tossed with olive oil and garlic.

This casserole makes an excellent potluck contribution as it travels well and can be enjoyed at room temperature. Always label it as gluten-free and low carb for guests with dietary restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use other vegetables in this casserole?

Yes, feel free to customize with vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers to suit your taste or what's available.

→ What is the best low-carb pasta sauce for this dish?

Choose a low-carb marinara sauce, such as Rao's Homemade Marinara, for a flavorful yet carb-conscious option.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red chili flakes, diced jalapeños, or opt for a spicy Italian sausage to enhance the heat in this casserole.

→ Can this casserole be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when needed for a hassle-free meal.

→ How can I make it dairy-free?

Swap the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese with dairy-free alternatives and ensure the sausage used does not contain dairy.

→ What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, it freezes well. Assemble and freeze before baking or freeze leftovers after baking for up to 2 months.