Description
This low-carb pizza casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the flavors of classic pizza with nutritious cauliflower rice. Perfect for those looking to enjoy a delicious meal while keeping carbs in check, it features seasoned ground beef, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- 2 cups cauliflower rice
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is ready for baking the casserole evenly.
- Brown Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks for even texture.
- Mix Sauces and Seasonings: Drain the excess fat from the beef, then stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to create a well-flavored base.
- Add Cauliflower and Cheese: Mix in the cauliflower rice and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese thoroughly into the meat mixture to incorporate the cheesy texture and reduce carbs.
- Prepare for Baking: Spread this mixture evenly into a baking dish, creating a uniform layer for baking.
- Add Toppings: Evenly distribute the remaining mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices over the top to add classic pizza flavor and a golden cheese crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly for a few minutes before serving to make slicing easier and enhance flavor melding.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- Use freshly grated mozzarella for better melting and taste.
- Cauliflower rice can be swapped with finely chopped broccoli for a variation.
- Ensure to drain the fat well after browning to keep it low carb and less greasy.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American