If you’re craving all the delicious flavors of pizza but want to keep things low-carb, this Low Carb Pizza Casserole is your dream dinner.
Packed with Italian sausage, pepperoni, veggies, and melty cheese, it delivers that bold, classic pizza flavor—without the crust.
It’s the kind of recipe that satisfies the whole family and keeps you feeling good.
Even better? It’s perfect for meal prep and easy to customize.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pizza flavor without the carbs – All the toppings, none of the crust.
Loaded with protein – Italian sausage and pepperoni keep you full.
Veggie-packed – Cauliflower, peppers, and mushrooms add bulk and nutrients.
Ultra cheesy – A blend of mozzarella and parmesan for that golden topping.
Great for leftovers – Holds up well for lunch or dinner the next day.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Cauliflower florets – Steamed until tender, they form the base layer.
Italian sausage – Hearty and flavorful, especially with the casing removed.
Pepperoni – Adds that signature pizza taste and crispy topping.
Mushrooms and green peppers – Classic pizza veggies with great texture.
Mozzarella and parmesan – Melts beautifully for a gooey, golden crust.
Low-carb pasta sauce – Marinara-style sauce keeps it pizza-authentic without sugar.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Don’t overcook the cauliflower – You want it tender but not mushy.
Drain everything well – Excess moisture makes for a watery casserole.
Press pepperoni slightly into the casserole – It prevents curling and gives even coverage.
Use quality marinara – A flavorful sauce makes a big difference.
Save some pepperoni for the top – They crisp up for a perfect finish.
How to Make Low Carb Pizza Casserole
Step 1: Steam the Cauliflower
Add cauliflower florets and 1 cup water to a microwave-safe bowl.
Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for about 3 minutes until tender.
Drain well and pat dry.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked, about 15 minutes.
Drain excess fat and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms
Using the same skillet, heat olive oil and sauté mushrooms for about 10 minutes until they release their liquid and begin to brown. Set aside.
Step 5: Mix the Main Filling
In a large bowl, combine steamed cauliflower, cooked sausage, mushrooms, and green peppers.
Toss until everything is evenly mixed.
Step 6: Assemble the Layers
Spread pasta sauce in the bottom of the casserole dish.
Layer half of the filling mixture over it.
Top with another sauce, half the pepperoni, and 6 ounces of mozzarella cheese.
Step 7: Repeat and Finish
Add the rest of the filling mixture, followed by the remaining pasta sauce, mozzarella cheese, and most of the pepperoni—reserving 10 slices for the top.
Step 8: Add Topping
In a small bowl, mix parmesan and Italian seasoning.
Sprinkle over the casserole, then top with the remaining pepperoni slices.
Step 9: Bake
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
What to Serve It With
A simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
Roasted Brussels sprouts or zucchini
Garlic Parmesan roasted asparagus
Low-carb garlic bread or cheesy chaffles
Sparkling water with lemon or a dry red wine
Variations / Substitutions
Add more veggies – Spinach, black olives, or artichokes work great.
Switch the meat – Use ground turkey, beef, or chorizo instead.
Dairy-free version – Use plant-based cheese alternatives.
Spicy twist – Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
Keto upgrade – Use full-fat cheeses and sugar-free marinara.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge – Store in an airtight container up to 5 days.
Reheat – Use oven or microwave until hot and melty.
Freeze – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Meal prep tip – Divide into single portions for grab-and-go lunches.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
What kind of cauliflower should I use?
Fresh or frozen florets work—just make sure they’re steamed and well drained.
Can I skip the mushrooms or peppers?
Absolutely. Add or omit based on your preferences.
What low-carb sauce is best?
Rao’s Homemade Marinara is great, but any sugar-free marinara will work.
Do I have to use both mozzarella and parmesan?
No, but the combo gives great flavor and texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking dish and increase bake time slightly.
Will it be watery with cauliflower?
Not if you steam and dry it properly before assembling.
Final Thoughts
This Low Carb Pizza Casserole is everything I crave in comfort food—cheesy, hearty, flavorful, and guilt-free.
It hits all the right notes of pizza night without the carb crash.
Whether you’re following keto or just looking for a delicious way to get more veggies in, this one-pan wonder delivers.
Low Carb Pizza Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Steam cauliflower in microwave with 1 cup water for ~3 minutes until tender.
- Drain and pat dry.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat for ~15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, heat olive oil.
- Sauté mushrooms for ~10 minutes until liquid is gone.
- In a large bowl, combine cauliflower, sausage, mushrooms, and green pepper. Toss to mix.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/low-carb-pizza-casserole/
Notes
- Blot cauliflower and mushrooms dry to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Feel free to use turkey sausage or ground beef as a variation.
- Rao’s is a great low-carb marinara, but any sugar-free sauce works here.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.