Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This crustless pizza bowl delivers all the classic flavors of pizza without the heaviness of dough. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and fits perfectly into a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diet. You can make it in one dish with minimal cleanup, and it’s great for lunch, dinner, or even a protein-packed snack.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sugar-free marinara sauce
1/4 cup cooked ground sausage
1/4 cup pepperoni slices (optional)
1/4 cup diced bell pepper (optional)
1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a small oven-safe bowl or baking dish.
Spread shredded mozzarella cheese evenly in the prepared dish to form the base layer.
Spoon marinara sauce over the cheese layer. Add ground sausage, pepperoni, bell peppers, and olives.
Sprinkle oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the toppings. Mix gently if desired for even distribution.
Bake for 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and toppings are heated through.
Remove from oven and let cool for 1 minute. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Yield: 1 serving (1 pizza bowl)
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and adding mushrooms, spinach, or extra veggies.
Swap mozzarella for a cheese blend such as cheddar and provolone.
Use spicy marinara or add crushed red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
Replace marinara with creamy Alfredo for a white pizza variation.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, though the oven keeps the cheese texture better.
Not recommended for freezing, as the cheese may become watery when thawed.

FAQs

Can I make this in the microwave?

Yes, assemble as directed and microwave on high for 2–3 minutes, though it won’t be as browned or bubbly as oven-baked.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in fat and protein, making it suitable for keto.

Can I use fresh mozzarella?

Yes, but drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free mozzarella alternative and check that your marinara is dairy-free.

How can I make it spicier?

Add jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or spicy sausage.

Do I need to grease the baking dish?

Yes, lightly greasing prevents the cheese from sticking.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just use a larger baking dish and extend the baking time slightly.

Can I use jarred pizza sauce instead of marinara?

Yes, just choose a sugar-free option to keep it low-carb.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but bake just before serving for best results.

Conclusion

The Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl is a quick, flavorful way to enjoy pizza without the crust. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, adaptable to any taste preference, and delivers all the cheesy comfort of a classic pizza while keeping carbs low. With just one dish and a handful of ingredients, you can have a satisfying, guilt-free meal in minutes