Okay, real talk — some nights I just want pizza, like full-on cheese-pull, pepperoni heaven. But, you know, I also don’t want to feel like I swallowed a bowling ball after. That’s kinda how this Low-Carb Pizza Casserole became one of my go-tos.
Honestly, the first time I made it, I didn’t even measure anything (don’t judge me). The whole kitchen smelled like my favorite old-school pizza joint, and I knew I had something good. So yeah, if you’re craving comfort food without the carb crash, this one hits the spot — big time.
Why This Low-Carb Pizza Casserole Just Works
Home cooks actually love dishes that feel familiar, and this one tastes like pizza but with way less guilt. Cauliflower stands in for the crust — and no, it doesn’t taste like sadness, I promise. I treat it like the base of the dish, not the star, so the flavors from the sausage, pepperoni, and sauce take over in the best way.
Plus, the whole thing is basically a one-pan wonder. Throw it together, toss it in the oven, and boom — you’ve got dinner sorted while you, I don’t know, fold laundry, scroll TikTok, or just sit and do absolutely nothing (my fave).
What You Need for This Low-Carb Pizza Casserole
Here’s everything that goes into this bad boy — simple pantry stuff and classic pizza toppings:
- 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2 lbs), cut into small florets
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot), casings removed — or go with ground beef or turkey if that’s your vibe
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (15 oz) sugar-free pizza sauce or marinara (just peek at the label for sneaky added sugars)
- 4 oz pepperoni slices, divided
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella, divided
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional but so good if you love heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional, but hey, it makes it look cute)
🔪 Step-by-Step: How I Make This Low-Carb Pizza Casserole
You don’t need fancy tools or chef skills — just a pan, a casserole dish, and a little patience while the oven does its thing.
1. Prep the Cauliflower
I chop the cauliflower into small florets — nothing too big, ’cause smaller pieces cook quicker. If your knife skills aren’t perfect, no worries. It all works out once it bakes.
2. Brown the Sausage
Warm up a skillet and toss in the Italian sausage. Break it up with your spoon while it cooks. Add the chopped onions and garlic. Your kitchen will smell insane at this point — like, “neighbors peeking through the window” level good.
3. Add Sauce + Seasonings
Pour in the sugar-free pizza sauce. Sprinkle in oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Give it all a good mix. This is where it starts tasting like pizza night already.
4. Put It All Together
In a big casserole dish, mix the cauliflower with the sauce mixture. Toss in half the mozzarella and half the pepperoni. Kind of like layering lasagna… but not really… you get the idea.
5. Cheese It Up
Throw the rest of the mozzarella on top. Add the Parmesan, then arrange the remaining pepperoni slices so it looks like a glorious pizza blanket.
6. Bake
Pop it in the oven at 400°F for about 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges look a little golden. My oven runs hot, so sometimes I have to yank it out sooner — just keep an eye on it, you know?
7. Add Garnish + Serve
Once it’s out, I sprinkle basil or parsley on top for a cute finish. Totally optional but always worth it.
What This Casserole Tastes Like
Picture this: a deep-dish vibe, cheesy top, crispy edges of pepperoni, and all the pizza flavors you crave. The cauliflower soaks up the sauce, so you don’t get that watery situation some veggie casseroles have. Instead, it’s hearty, bold, and honestly, kinda addictive.
Quick Tips for Busy Home Cooks
Let’s face it — nobody has free time anymore, so here are some shortcuts:
- Use pre-cut cauliflower — seriously, it saves like 10 minutes.
- Go with pre-shredded cheese if you’re tired.
- Swap meat based on whatever’s in your fridge.
- Make it ahead and bake later; it holds up great.
- Add veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers if you’re feeling fancy-ish.
And yeah, if the pepperoni “mysteriously disappears” while you prep… same.
Fun Topping Ideas for Your Casserole
Since this is basically pizza in disguise, you can change it up based on what mood you’re in:
- green peppers
- olives
- mushrooms
- extra garlic
- jalapeños
- a sprinkle of chili crisp (so good, omg)
❤️ Final Thoughts
If you want comfort food without carb overload, this Low-Carb Pizza Casserole is honestly such a solid option. It hits that pizza craving without the dough, the fuss, or the “I need a nap now” moment afterward.
Plus, it’s the kinda dish that works for families, picky eaters, or anyone trying to keep things lighter but still delicious. Try it once, and I’m warning you — it might end up in your weekly rotation.
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