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Keto Low-Carb Pizza Casserole

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  • Prep time: 15 minutes

  • Cook time: 25 minutes

  • Total time: 40 minutes

  • Course: Main Dish, Casserole

  • Cuisine: Italian-American / Keto

  • Yield: 6 Servings

Flavor Intensities

  • Savory & Meaty: High (spicy Italian sausage base)

  • Cheese Profile: Extra Rich & Gooey (mozzarella and parmesan blend)

  • Herb & Spice: Medium (classic Italian seasoning and garlic)

  • Skill Level: Easy / Beginner-friendly

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs (680g) Italian sausage (mild or hot, casings removed)

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional, omit for strict ultra-low carb)

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup low-sugar keto-friendly marinara sauce

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

  • 3 oz (85g) sliced pepperoni

  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter and set aside.

  2. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the Italian sausage and chopped onion. Cook, breaking apart the meat with a wooden spoon, until thoroughly browned and cooked through (about 6 to 8 minutes). Add the minced garlic during the final minute of cooking, stirring continuously until fragrant.

  3. Drain and Season: Drain off any excess grease from the skillet. Stir the low-sugar marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder directly into the cooked sausage mixture until well combined and heated through.

  4. Layer the Base: Transfer the seasoned meat sauce mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer to form the hearty foundation of your casserole.

  5. Add the Cheeses: Sprinkle 1.5 cups of the shredded mozzarella cheese and the grated parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the meat layer, ensuring complete coverage.

  6. Top with Pepperoni: Arrange the pepperoni slices in a neat, overlapping pattern across the top of the cheese layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the pepperoni for extra gooey goodness.

  7. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbling furiously, and the edges begin to turn a light golden brown.

  8. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set before slicing. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm.

Chef’s Pro-Tips for Keto Success

  • Choose the Right Sauce: Always check labels to ensure your marinara sauce has no added sugars. Many commercial brands hide high amounts of carbohydrates.

  • Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to fold in keto-friendly pizza toppings you love, such as sliced black olives, sautéed mushrooms, or green bell peppers, right into the meat layer.

Nutrition Information

Estimated values per serving (based on 6 total servings):

  • Calories: 420 kcal

  • Total Fat: 32 g

  • Saturated Fat: 12 g

  • Sodium: 980 mg

  • Total Carbohydrates: 5 g

  • Dietary Fiber: 1.5 g

  • Net Carbs: 3.5 g

  • Sugars: 2.5 g

  • Protein: 28 g

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