Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, contemplating what to whip up for dinner, the thought of pizza instantly struck a chord. But why not skip the dough and embrace a healthier twist instead? Enter the Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl—your new go-to for a satisfying meal that maintains all the flavors of your favorite pie. This recipe effortlessly combines savory ground meat, vibrant sautéed veggies, and a generous layer of melted cheese, ensuring it’s not just delicious but also a quick and easy option for busy weeknights. Perfectly gluten-free and low in carbs, this bowl is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy the comfort of pizza without any guilt. Curious how to assemble this delightful dish? Let’s dive in! Why is this pizza bowl so special? Simplicity: With just a few ingredients and basic cooking skills, you’ll have a hearty dinner on the table in no time. Incredible flavor: The combination of ground meat, sautéed veggies, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Versatile: Feel free to customize it with your favorite pizza toppings, whether it’s pepperoni, olives, or fresh herbs, making it a dish that never gets old. Meal prep friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch throughout the week; it keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day. Nutritional benefits: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle, making it a great alternative to traditional pizza. Want a side to pair with your pizza bowl? Try these Healthy Greek Bowls or some delicious Roasted Cauliflower as a fantastic complement! Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl Ingredients For the Meat Base Ground Meat – Provides the main protein and savory flavor; choose turkey for a leaner option. Olive Oil – Used for sautéing vegetables; adds richness. Substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor. For the Veggies Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish upon cooking. Use shallots for a milder taste. Green Bell Pepper – Brings in crunch and freshness; use different colored bell peppers for sweetness. Mushrooms – Adds umami and texture; can be replaced with zucchini for a lighter option. Garlic – Enhances the flavor profile; fresh garlic is recommended for best taste. For the Sauce & Cheese Low-Carb Marinara Sauce – Ties the ingredients together with tanginess; ensure it’s sugar-free. Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Provides melty goodness; substitute with shredded Italian cheese blend if desired. Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds extra flavor and texture; can replace with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version. For Finishing Touches Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for heat; adjust amount according to spice preference. Fresh Basil or Parsley – For garnish and brightness; use any fresh herb of choice. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl Step 1: Preheat Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl will bake evenly and achieve a perfect melt on the cheese. While the oven heats up, gather your ramekins or a baking dish to prepare for assembling the bowls. Step 2: Sauté Vegetables In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, diced green bell peppers, and sliced mushrooms, sautéing them for about 4-5 minutes until they become tender and fragrant. Then, include minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s golden and aromatic, creating a flavorful base for your pizza bowl. Step 3: Cook the Meat Push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the skillet and add your choice of ground meat, cooking it until browned, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Make sure to sprinkle with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. If necessary, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy before moving on to the next step. Step 4: Add Sauce Pour in a cup of low-carb marinara sauce over the meat and vegetables, stirring everything together thoroughly. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for about 2-3 minutes. This step melds the flavors beautifully, ensuring the ingredients in your Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl come together for a savory experience. Step 5: Assemble Bowls Divide the hearty mixture evenly into your prepared ramekins or baking dish. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top of each one. If desired, feel free to add in crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick or other favorite toppings—this is your moment to personalize the dish! Step 6: Bake Place the ramekins or baking dish on a baking sheet and slide it into the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, keeping an eye on the cheese as it melts and bubbles. When the cheese is golden and the edges are bubbling, your Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl is ready to enjoy. Step 7: Garnish & Serve After removing from the oven, allow the bowls to cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil or parsley. This bright pop of color and flavor elevates your dish. Serve the bowls hot, ready for a cozy dinner that feels both indulgent and nutritious—perfect for any pizza lover! Make Ahead Options These Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowls are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can prep the entire filling—sautéing the vegetables, cooking the meat, and mixing in the marinara sauce—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat it gently in a skillet before assembling in your ramekins, topping with cheese, and baking for 10-12 minutes until melted and bubbly. This method retains the dish’s delicious quality while saving you precious time during hectic evenings, ensuring every bite is just as delectable! Expert Tips for Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl Proper Grease Control: Remember to drain excess fat from your ground meat after cooking to avoid a greasy dish and keep it light and tasty. Cheese Meltdown Watch: Keep a close eye on your cheese while it bakes; if you notice it browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning. Flavor Pairing: Don’t hesitate to customize your toppings! Popular additions like olives and spinach can elevate your Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl while adding nutrition. Meal Prep Option: Make a larger batch and store leftovers in an airtight container. It reheats wonderfully for a quick, healthy lunch! Texture Optimization: For added texture, consider using a mix of cheeses or adding a crispy topping like crushed pork rinds before baking. Herb Freshness: Always garnish with fresh herbs just before serving to enhance the flavors and present a vibrant, appealing dish. Storage Tips for Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled bowls in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just ensure they’re tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Note: This Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl can also be enjoyed cold as a quick snack, adding versatility to how you savor the dish! Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe! With a few simple adjustments, you can tailor the Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl to fit your taste buds. Dairy-Free: Substitute the cheeses with nutritional yeast and vegan cheese for a completely dairy-free version. You’ll still get the cheesy flavor while enjoying a plant-based option. Vegetarian: Swap ground meat for lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. This twist still provides protein and transforms your dish into a hearty vegetarian delight. Try adding some diced eggplant for even more texture! Spicy Kick: Toss in jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to amp up the heat. This will bring a lively kick to each bite, turning your pizza bowl into an exciting flavor adventure. Flavor Boost: Consider adding favorite pizza toppings like pepperoni or olives for an extra burst of flavor. These additions can create a surprise in every spoonful while ensuring a fulfilling pizza experience. Zesty Upgrade: Add sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes for a gourmet touch. These ingredients will elevate your Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl to something you might find at your favorite Italian restaurant. Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like oregano or thyme instead of basil for a fragrant twist. Changing herbs can completely alter the essence of your dish, creating a unique experience every time. Veggie Lovers: Bulk up your dish by including additional veggies such as spinach, zucchini, or roasted red peppers. The more colorful, the better! This not only improves the health factor but also the presentation. Refined Twist: Want to skip the meat and cheese entirely? Try a cauliflower mash as the base with a savory tomato sauce drizzle on top. It’s like a deconstructed pizza without the carbs! For a satisfying side, consider serving your Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl alongside these delectable Crispy Roasted Cauliflower or a fresh salad. The combinations are endless, so let your taste inspire you! What to Serve with Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl Elevate your dining experience by exploring these delightful side dishes that perfectly complement the savory, cheesy goodness of the pizza bowl. Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad loaded with greens and colorful veggies adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the pizza bowl. Garlic Bread: Slice into some warm, buttery garlic bread for that traditional Italian touch; it’s wonderful for scooping up every bite! Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots brings out their natural sweetness, making a delightful contrast. Zucchini Noodles: Spiraled zucchini tossed with olive oil and garlic creates a low-carb, fresh pasta alternative that ties in beautifully with the Italian flavors. Cauliflower Rice: Fluffy cauliflower rice makes for a light base that absorbs the flavors perfectly, enhancing the meal without adding carbs. Cheesy Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized sprouts drizzled with a hint of cheese offer a savory side that echoes the cheese in the pizza bowl. Sparkling Water with Lemon: Refresh with a glass of fizzy, zesty sparkling water; it cleanses the palate and brightens the meal. Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Delight in a creamy, rich dessert that’s guilt-free and pairs exceptionally well after a hearty dinner. Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe vegetables for my pizza bowl? Absolutely! Look for vegetables that feel firm and tight. For bell peppers, choose ones that are shiny and free of blemishes, while mushrooms should be plump and fresh, without dark spots. If you see any soft spots or wrinkles, they may not be as fresh or flavorful. What’s the best way to store leftover Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl? Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before placing them in the fridge. This helps retain their delicious flavors and keeps them fresh for your next meal. Can I freeze my Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl? Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the bowls in freezer-safe containers, ensuring they’re tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through—perfect for a quick meal! What should I do if my meat is greasy? No worries! If your ground meat ends up greasy, simply drain the excess fat after browning it. This will prevent the dish from becoming heavy and keep it lighter and tastier. Additionally, you can use leaner meats like turkey or extra-lean beef to minimize greasiness. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Yes, indeed! This recipe is gluten-free and low in carbs, making it suitable for those following keto or low-carb diets. If you’re serving it to someone with dairy allergies, consider using nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a dairy-free alternative. Always double-check the labels of your marinara sauce and other ingredients to ensure they meet dietary needs. Can my pets enjoy this pizza bowl too? Of course! While your Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl is perfect for you, be cautious about sharing. Ground meat and veggies (like bell peppers and mushrooms) are typically safe, but avoid high-sodium marinara sauce and cheese. It’s best to offer them plain meat and veggies as a treat. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods! Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl – Comfort Food Reimagined Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl is a gluten-free meal that maintains all the flavors of pizza, combining savory meat, sautéed veggies, and melted cheese. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Meat Base1 pound Ground Meat (turkey recommended)2 tablespoons Olive Oil or avocado oilFor the Veggies1 medium Onion or shallots for a milder taste1 medium Green Bell Pepper or different colored bell peppers1 cup Mushrooms or zucchini for a lighter option2 cloves Garlic mincedFor the Sauce & Cheese1 cup Low-Carb Marinara Sauce sugar-free1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese or Italian cheese blend1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese or nutritional yeast for dairy-freeFor Finishing Touches1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes optional1/4 cup Fresh Basil or Parsley for garnish Equipment skilletBaking Dish or Ramekinsoven Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Gather ramekins or a baking dish.In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, green bell peppers, and mushrooms. Sauté for 4-5 minutes.Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.Push veggies aside, add ground meat, and cook until browned (5-7 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.Drain excess fat, then pour in marinara sauce and stir. Simmer on low for 2-3 minutes.Divide mixture into ramekins or baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Add crushed red pepper if desired.Bake for 10-12 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.Remove from oven, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve hot. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Can also be enjoyed cold or reheated. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
