If you’re looking for a dish that’s warm, comforting, and super simple to make, this low carb pizza casserole is a perfect choice. It brings together all the classic flavors of pizza in a cozy, casserole form. You can whip it up quickly for a weeknight dinner or enjoy it during a relaxed weekend meal with family.

Why You Will Love This Low Carb Pizza Casserole

This pizza casserole is a fantastic option for busy families. It’s tasty, filling, and has everyday ingredients that you probably already have at home. Plus, it cooks up fast, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner. Whether you’re on a low-carb diet or just love pizza, this dish is sure to satisfy.

How to Make Low Carb Pizza Casserole

Making this casserole is as easy as pie—err, pizza! You’ll layer your ingredients, pop it into the oven, and let it bake until everything is warm and bubbly. There’s no complicated preparation here; just mix, layer, and cook. It’s perfect for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a stress-free meal.

What You Need

1 pound ground beef or sausage
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
2 cups sugar-free marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: sliced olives, pepperoni, or fresh basil

Step-by-Step

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage with the chopped onion and bell pepper until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
In a baking dish, layer half of the meat mixture, then half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat with the remaining meat and cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let it cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Low Carb Pizza Casserole

This casserole is delicious on its own but can be paired wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal. You can also top it with extra cheese, fresh basil, or even your favorite pizza toppings for some extra flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or any cozy occasion.

How to Store Low Carb Pizza Casserole

To keep this dish fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat single servings in the microwave until hot. If you’d like to freeze it, portion out the casserole into freezer-safe bags or containers. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Recipe Tips

Don’t overcook the meat; it should be just browned for tenderness.
Feel free to use turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
You can swap marinara for pesto for a different flavor profile.
Add veggies like mushrooms or spinach to boost nutrition.
Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to help it set up.

Variations & Swaps

Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or a veggie mix.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for heat.
Make it Kid-Friendly: Top with their favorite pizza toppings, like pepperoni or cooked sausage.
Holiday Twist: Use seasonal spices like oregano or a dash of nutmeg for a special touch.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance. Just assemble the casserole and cover it before storing it in the fridge. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Once it’s cooled, portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. Just make sure to label them for easy identification.

What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat it in the microwave or oven. For the oven, cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. In the microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

Can I use a different type of sauce?
Definitely! While marinara is a classic choice, you can use Alfredo sauce or even a barbecue sauce for a different flavor. Just make sure the sauce is low-carb if that’s your focus.

What should I do if my casserole is too watery?
If you find it’s too watery, you can drain excess liquid before baking. Alternatively, let it bake a bit longer uncovered to allow moisture to evaporate and thicken up the sauce.