🍕 Crustless Pizza Bowl
Description
A Crustless Pizza Bowl is a low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly alternative to traditional pizza. Instead of a dough base, it layers flavorful pizza sauce, melted cheese, vegetables, and savory toppings like pepperoni or sausage—all baked in a bowl. It’s perfect for pizza lovers who want all the taste without the carbs. Quick, customizable, and delicious, this dish makes an excellent weeknight meal or a guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients for Crustless Pizza Bowl
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1 cup pizza sauce (sugar-free if keto)
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1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
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½ cup sliced pepperoni (or sausage, cooked)
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½ cup bell peppers, sliced
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½ cup mushrooms, sliced
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ÂĽ cup black olives, sliced
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½ tsp Italian seasoning
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ÂĽ tsp red chili flakes (optional, for spice)
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Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
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Preheat Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C).
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Layer Sauce: Spread 2–3 tablespoons of pizza sauce at the bottom of oven-safe bowls.
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Add Cheese: Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella and parmesan.
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Add Toppings: Layer pepperoni, bell peppers, mushrooms, and olives.
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Repeat Layers: Add another layer of cheese and toppings.
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Bake: Place bowls in the oven for 12–15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Finish: Sprinkle Italian seasoning, chili flakes, and garnish with fresh basil. Serve hot.
Notes
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You can use ground chicken, turkey, or beef as a protein base.
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Choose a low-sugar or homemade sauce if keeping it keto-friendly.
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Great for meal prep—assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
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Works in an air fryer (at 350°F for 8–10 minutes).
Tips
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For a crispier top, broil for 2 minutes after baking.
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Mix ricotta cheese with seasoning for a creamy layer.
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Swap mozzarella for cheddar or provolone for different flavors.
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Keep toppings light to avoid excess liquid from veggies.
Servings
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Serves 2 people (can be doubled or tripled for family size).
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
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Calories: 380 kcal
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Protein: 24g
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Carbohydrates: 9g (net carbs 6g if using low-carb sauce)
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Fat: 28g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 4g
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Sodium: 920mg
Health Benefits
✅ Low-carb & keto-friendly – Great for weight management.
✅ High in protein – Supports muscle repair and satiety.
✅ Rich in calcium – From cheese, good for bone health.
✅ Customizable nutrition – Add veggies for more fiber & vitamins.
✅ Gluten-free option – Safe for those with gluten intolerance.
Q & A
Q1: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and plant-based protein toppings.
Q2: Can it be reheated?
Yes, reheat in the oven or microwave. For best texture, use the oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes.
Q3: What other toppings work well?
Spinach, jalapeños, artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, chicken, or bacon.
Q4: Is it kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the cheesy pizza flavor, and you can sneak in extra veggies.
Q5: Can I meal prep Crustless Pizza Bowls?
Yes—assemble in advance, refrigerate up to 3 days, and bake when ready.