Low Carb Pizza Bowl

This low carb crustless pizza bowl brings all the joys of a favorite pizza without the carbs. A combination of sauteed onions, peppers, mushrooms, and garlic blends seamlessly with seasoned ground meat simmered in a flavorful marinara sauce. Melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses top each serving which is then baked to golden perfection. This dish is a wonderful choice for anyone craving comfort food that fits keto or glutenfree diets and is quick enough for a weeknight meal or meal prep.

I first made this during a busy weeknight when I needed a pizza fix without the guilt. It was so good that now my family asks for it nearly every Friday and I love how quick and customizable it is.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: Brings out the natural flavors of the vegetables and leaves a silky finish
• Chopped onions: Add sweetness and aroma forming the base of the dish
• Green bell peppers: Provide a satisfying crunch and fresh peppery notes
• Sliced mushrooms: Lend an earthy depth and soak up all the seasonings
• Minced garlic: Contributes a warm sharp bite when cooked briefly
• Ground beef or turkey: Forms a savory and rich protein base
• Italian seasoning: Blends herbs that beautifully complement the tomato sauce and cheeses
• Salt and black pepper: Balance and enhance all the flavors
• Low carb marinara sauce: Keeps the dish keto friendly while giving it the classic tang of pizza
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Add a gentle heat if desired
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully creating that irresistible pizza topping
• Parmesan cheese: Boosts umami and adds a salty edge to each bite
• Fresh basil or parsley: Brightens the bowl with a fresh finishing touch

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to a moderate temperature around 350 degrees Fahrenheit and arrange your baking dishes on a tray. This preparation makes handling the ramekins safer and easier once they are filled and ready to bake.

Cook the Vegetables:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions bell peppers and mushrooms. Cook these slowly until they become tender and aromatic which usually takes about 7 to 10 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Once softened add minced garlic and cook just long enough for the scent to emerge but not so long that it becomes bitter about 30 seconds.

Brown the Meat:

Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the ground meat. Season with salt pepper and Italian herbs. Break it apart with a spoon and cook thoroughly until no pink remains and it has developed a nice brown color. Drain excess fat if necessary to keep the dish lighter.

Add the Sauce:

Pour the low carb marinara sauce into the skillet with the meat and vegetables. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Allow it to simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This lets the flavors meld and the sauce slightly thickens enhancing the texture of the final dish.

Assemble the Bowls:

Spoon the meat and vegetable mixture into individual ramekins leaving room at the top for cheese. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan on each one. If you like a little heat add crushed red pepper flakes at this point.

Bake:

Place the ramekins on the prepared tray and into the preheated oven. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted golden and bubbling along the edges. Watching carefully helps avoid burning the cheese.

Garnish and Serve:

Allow the pizza bowls to cool for a few minutes after baking. Sprinkle with fresh chopped basil or parsley. Serve warm but be mindful that the ramekins will retain heat for some time.

One of my favorite ingredients here is the combination of fresh vegetables with well seasoned meat which gives the dish complexity beyond typical pizza. A family memory I cherish is the first time my kids realized this was pizza without the bread and declared it their new favorite comfort food.

Storage Tips

Let the pizza bowls cool completely before covering them tightly with lids or plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until hot throughout to maintain the cheesy texture and flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try using zucchini or eggplant instead of bell peppers for variation and extra vegetables. Italian sausage can replace ground beef or turkey for more bold spiced flavor. For dairy free options choose a non dairy mozzarella style cheese that melts well.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the pizza bowls with a crisp green salad for a balance of freshness and warmth. Garlic roasted green beans or steamed broccoli offer a nice crunch and complement the rich bowl. To feed a crowd prepare this in larger baking dishes and serve familystyle letting guests scoop their portions.

This crustless pizza bowl delivers all the comforting flavors of pizza with fewer carbs and easy customization. It is ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep and keeps well for busy schedules.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ Can I use different meats in this pizza bowl?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, beef, or sausage all work well. Choose lean or fatty depending on your texture preference.

→ What’s the best way to keep it low-carb?

Use a no-sugar-added marinara sauce and avoid starchy vegetables or carb-heavy toppings like pineapple or corn.

→ How can I add extra flavor to the dish?

Try adding sautéed garlic, red pepper flakes, or Italian sausage. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano boost flavor too.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the bowls ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving or reheat gently in the oven until hot and bubbly.

→ What are good topping alternatives?

Pepperoni, olives, jalapeños, spinach, or artichoke hearts are great options for customizing your pizza bowl.

→ Is this gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all your ingredients—especially the sauce—are gluten-free, the dish is safe for gluten-sensitive diets.