Crustless Pizza Bake: All the Flavor, None of the Carbs
Low-Carb and Satisfying
If you’re a pizza lover watching your carb intake or just looking for a quick and easy dinner that satisfies your pizza cravings, this Crustless Pizza Bake is the perfect solution. It’s loaded with all the classic pizza flavors without the dough, making it a low-carb, high-flavor alternative. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe!
Ingredients:
For the Pizza Sauce:
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Pizza Bake:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey or sausage)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni (choose a low-carb brand if desired)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking dish.
2. Prepare the Pizza Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the skillet with the browned beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
5. Layer the Bake:
- Spread half of the prepared pizza sauce in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Place the beef and vegetable mixture on top of the sauce.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the beef mixture.
- Add half of the sliced black olives and half of the sliced pepperoni.
- Pour the remaining pizza sauce over the top.
- Add the remaining mozzarella cheese, sliced olives, and sliced pepperoni.
6. Finish with Parmesan:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the bake. If you like a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes as well.
7. Bake:
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
8. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the Crustless Pizza Bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
9. Enjoy:
- Serve your Crustless Pizza Bake hot and enjoy all the familiar pizza flavors without the carbs!
Tips and Variations:
Customizing Your Crustless Pizza Bake
Tips:
- Be creative with your choice of toppings. Mushrooms, sliced bell peppers, and even spinach are great additions.
- If you’re vegetarian, skip the ground meat and load up on veggies for a meatless version.
Variations:
- For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Customize the sauce to your liking by adding a dash of hot sauce or extra garlic for more flavor.
Customization:
- The beauty of this Crustless Pizza Bake is that you can tailor it to your preferences just like you would with a traditional pizza. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply want a quicker way to enjoy pizza night, this recipe is versatile and delicious.
Storage:
- Store any leftover Crustless Pizza Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Cook’s Note:
- This dish is not only great for a family dinner but also for gatherings and parties. It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both carb-conscious and pizza-loving guests. Enjoy the taste of pizza without the guilt!
- If you’re meal prepping or looking for easy leftovers, this Crustless Pizza Bake can be reheated for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner throughout the week. It reheats well in the microwave or oven.
- Don’t hesitate to get creative with your favorite pizza toppings. Whether you love classic combinations like mushrooms and green peppers or prefer unique additions like artichoke hearts and feta cheese, this recipe can accommodate your preferences.
- For a gluten-free version, make sure to use gluten-free pepperoni or sausage, and double-check that your tomato sauce is gluten-free as well. Most shredded cheeses are naturally gluten-free, but always read the label to be sure.
- To enhance the pizza flavor, sprinkle some Italian seasoning or additional dried herbs over the top before baking. It’s a simple touch that can elevate the taste.
- Fresh basil leaves make a lovely garnish, adding a touch of brightness and freshness to the dish. If you have basil on hand, give it a try.
- Remember that the red pepper flakes are optional but can provide a delightful kick of heat. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.
- This Crustless Pizza Bake is a fantastic option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. It’s satisfying and packed with flavor without the extra carbohydrates from traditional pizza crust.
- Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying dish for a casual gathering, this recipe is a versatile and enjoyable way to enjoy the flavors of pizza without the carbs. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike. Enjoy your low-carb pizza experience!
