Pin it
This bowl-style pizza ditches the crust for a handy low-carb option that scratches your pizza itch without any guilt. All your fave Italian flavors come together – seasoned meat, melty cheese, and classic toppings – in a cozy bowl that's perfect for busy evenings or prepping ahead.
I came up with this dish when I started cutting back on carbs but really missed our family pizza nights. These days my kids actually ask for these bowls instead of delivery pizza, which I count as a total mom victory.
What You'll Need
- Ground Italian sausage: Brings tons of flavor and filling protein – you can swap in ground beef or turkey if you want something lighter
- Marinara sauce: Try to find ones without added sugar to keep carbs low – aim for something with about 3-4g carbs per serving
- Cherry tomatoes: Add pops of freshness and natural sweetness – pick bright ones that give slightly when squeezed
- Mushrooms: Give a hearty texture and earthy taste – baby bellas pack the most flavor punch
- Mozzarella cheese: Creates that awesome pizza pull – grate it yourself for way better melting
- Parmesan cheese: Adds that tangy bite that makes everything taste better – grab a block and grate it fresh
- Herbs and spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, oregano—they bring that Italian vibe without extra carbs
How To Make It
- Cook your meat:
- Get your Italian sausage nice and brown in a skillet over medium heat for about 7-8 minutes, breaking it apart as you go. Don't stir too much – you want those tasty browned bits. Pour off extra fat if your meat's on the greasy side.
- Mix in the sauce:
- Stir your marinara into the cooked meat until everything's coated. This makes the tasty base of your pizza bowl, just like sauce on regular pizza dough. Let it bubble for 2 minutes so the flavors can mingle.
- Build your bowls:
- Spoon the meat mixture into oven-safe bowls, filling them halfway up. Add your mushrooms and tomatoes in layers instead of mixing them in – this way you'll get different flavors in each bite, just like a real pizza.
- Load up the cheese:
- Scatter plenty of mozzarella and parmesan over everything, making a thick layer that'll melt into gooey goodness. Make sure the cheese covers all your toppings completely, pizza-style.
- Add flavor and bake:
- Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and chili flakes if you want some heat. Pop in the oven at 375°F for exactly 12-15 minutes until you see the cheese bubbling with golden spots but before it gets too brown.
Pin it
The real magic trick in this recipe is using both cheeses together. I tried it with just mozzarella at first and it was decent, but adding that sharp parmesan completely changed everything. It suddenly tasted just like real pizzeria pizza. Now my hubby wants this every Sunday for our family movie nights.
Keeping Leftovers
These pizza bowls stay amazingly tasty in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just let them cool completely before tucking them into airtight containers. The funny thing is, they often taste even better the next day as the flavors get cozier overnight. When you're ready to eat, loosely cover with foil and warm them in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes, or zap them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until they're hot. The cheese will get all melty again without turning tough.
Pin it
Mix Up Your Toppings
Take this simple idea and run with it by switching up toppings based on your favorite pizza styles. For mega meat fans, toss in some crunchy bacon pieces, pepperoni, and chopped ham along with the sausage. Veggie lovers can go wild with extra mushrooms plus spinach, chopped bell peppers, black olives, and artichoke hearts. For a Greek twist, try crumbly feta, olives, and plenty of oregano. Every version stays low-carb but brings new flavors so your family won't get bored of this flexible meal.
What To Serve With It
Though these pizza bowls work great as a standalone meal, pairing them with simple sides can make dinner feel more complete. A fresh green salad with olive oil and red wine vinegar cuts through the richness perfectly. If you're not strictly counting carbs, some garlic bread made from low-carb alternatives works great for scooping up leftover sauce and cheese. Want that restaurant feeling at home? Add a small side of roasted zucchini and bell peppers tossed with Italian seasonings.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Is swapping the meat an option?
Totally, you can try ground chicken, turkey, or beef instead of Italian sausage to shake things up.
- → What’s the ideal marinara sauce?
Pick a no-sugar-added marinara for the best taste. Making it at home works great too!
- → Does it follow keto guidelines?
Yup! Just double-check all your ingredients, like marinara and spices, stay keto-friendly.
- → How can I include extra veggies?
Throw in some spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to boost both flavor and nutrition.
- → What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Put them in a sealed container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven when needed.
- → How do I make it spicy?
It’s easy! Sprinkle more chili flakes or cook with spicy Italian sausage for added heat.