Ingredients

For the Base:

  • 1 cup cooked ground Italian sausage or ground beef (optional for added protein)
  • 1/2 cup low-carb marinara sauce (look for a sauce with no added sugar)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese (optional for creaminess)

Toppings (Choose any of your favorites):

  • 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
  • 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup baby spinach or arugula
  • 1/4 cup pepperoni slices (optional)
  • Fresh basil, oregano, or Italian seasoning, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare the Base:
    • If using ground sausage or beef, brown it in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
    • In each oven-safe ramekin or mini baking dish, add 1-2 tablespoons of marinara sauce, followed by a spoonful of ricotta or cottage cheese (optional).
  3. Layer the Ingredients:
    • Divide the cooked sausage or beef among the ramekins, then top with your choice of vegetables and any additional toppings.
    • Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of each bowl and finish with a little Italian seasoning or fresh basil.
  4. Bake:
    • Place the ramekins on a baking sheet for stability and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  5. Serve:
    • Allow to cool for a couple of minutes, then garnish with fresh basil or red pepper flakes if desired.

SmartPoints (per serving)

Estimated using Weight Watchers guidelines.

  • Mozzarella Cheese: 4 SmartPoints per serving
  • Ricotta or Cottage Cheese (optional): 2 SmartPoints per serving
  • Marinara Sauce: 1 SmartPoint per serving
  • Meat (Italian Sausage or Ground Beef): 2-3 SmartPoints per serving, depending on leanness

Total: Approximately 7-10 SmartPoints per mini pizza bowl, depending on your chosen toppings and ingredients.

Tips:

  • Adjust the toppings to keep it keto-friendly: focus on low-carb vegetables and avoid starchy options.
  • For a lighter version, reduce or omit the meat and ricotta.

These Keto Mini Pizza Bowls are ideal for pizza lovers following a low-carb or keto diet while keeping the taste of classic pizza intact!