If you’re craving the flavors of pizza but want to skip the carbs, these Low-Carb Pizza Bowls are the perfect solution! Packed with melty cheese, your favorite toppings, and a rich tomato sauce, this dish delivers all the pizza goodness without the crust. It’s quick, customizable, and a fantastic option for anyone following a keto, low-carb, or gluten-free diet.
Ingredients
- 1–2 tablespoons pizza sauce (use sugar-free for a low-carb option)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (adjust to your preference)
- Toppings (choose your favorites!):
- Pepperoni
- Cooked ground turkey (instead of hamburger)
- Cooked Italian sausage
- Diced onions
- Bell peppers
- Black olives
- Banana peppers
- Ham
- Pineapple (optional, but higher in carbs)
- Spinach
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Assemble the Pizza Bowls
- In a small baking dish or ramekin, spread 1–2 tablespoons of pizza sauce evenly on the bottom.
- Layer your favorite toppings over the sauce. You can mix them together or arrange them in layers.
- Generously sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the toppings.
Step 3: Bake
- Place the pizza bowls in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute before digging in. Serve hot and enjoy your crustless, low-carb pizza delight!
Tips and Variations
- Make It Meatier: Add grilled chicken, turkey, or extra sausage for a protein-packed meal.
- Go Extra Cheesy: Mix in Parmesan, cheddar, or provolone for even more cheesy goodness.
- Add a Crunchy Base: Use zucchini slices, cauliflower rice, or mushrooms as a low-carb base.
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or spicy sausage for some heat.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast instead of mozzarella.
- Mini Pizza Bowls: Prepare individual portions in ramekins for easy serving and portion control.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigeration:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
- Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat for 1–2 minutes in a microwave-safe dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this without an oven?
Yes! You can prepare your pizza bowl in a microwave-safe dish and heat it for 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts.
2. What’s the best low-carb pizza sauce?
Look for a sugar-free marinara sauce or make your own with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning.
3. Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely! Try a blend of cheddar, provolone, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for extra flavor.
4. What are the best low-carb toppings?
Stick with meat, cheese, and low-carb veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, and olives. Avoid starchy veggies like corn or high-sugar toppings like pineapple.
5. Can I meal prep these pizza bowls?
Yes! Assemble your pizza bowls in oven-safe containers, store them in the fridge, and bake when ready to eat.
Final Thoughts
These Low-Carb Pizza Bowls give you all the flavors of pizza without the carbs, making them a perfect keto-friendly meal or quick weeknight dinner. They’re customizable, easy to make, and absolutely delicious. Try them today and enjoy a guilt-free pizza experience!