Introduction

Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional pizza, perfect for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet. This casserole combines the classic flavors of pizza—pepperoni, cheese, and a savory tomato sauce—into a hearty and satisfying dish. With its gooey cheese and spicy pepperoni, this recipe is sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving a family meal, this casserole is both easy to make and full of flavor. This guide provides a comprehensive recipe, including ingredient measurements, detailed instructions, nutritional information, and SmartPoints values to help you make this dish with ease.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  1. 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef
    • Provides a rich, meaty base for the casserole. Opt for lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
  2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • Used for sautéing the ground beef and adding healthy fats.
  3. 1 medium onion, diced
    • Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the casserole.
  4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • Provides aromatic flavor and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
  5. 1 can (15 ounces/425 grams) crushed tomatoes
    • Forms the base of the pizza sauce. Opt for no-salt-added if you are watching your sodium intake.
  6. 1 can (6 ounces/170 grams) tomato paste
    • Adds thickness and richness to the pizza sauce.
  7. 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
    • Enhances the pizza flavor profile with herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
  8. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • Adds an extra layer of herby flavor to the sauce.
  9. 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
    • Adds a touch of heat. Adjust to taste or omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
  10. 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
    • Provides the classic gooey, melty cheese topping for the casserole.
  11. 1 cup (120 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
    • Adds a sharp, tangy flavor to complement the mozzarella.
  12. 1 cup (100 grams) sliced pepperoni
    • Provides the signature pepperoni flavor. Choose a low-carb brand if possible.
  13. 2 large eggs
    • Help bind the ingredients together and contribute to the casserole’s texture.
  14. 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) heavy cream
    • Adds creaminess and richness to the casserole. Opt for full-fat to maintain the keto profile.
  15. Salt and black pepper to taste
    • Essential for seasoning and flavor balance.
  16. 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (for garnish)
    • Adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the finished casserole.

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similarly sized casserole dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
  4. Prepare the Sauce: Stir in 1 can of crushed tomatoes and 1 can of tomato paste into the skillet. Mix well to combine with the ground beef and onions.
  5. Season the Sauce: Add 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using) to the sauce. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 2 large eggs. Mix until well combined.
  7. Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the cheese mixture into the beef and sauce mixture, ensuring that it is evenly distributed.
  8. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  9. Add Pepperoni: Arrange 1 cup sliced pepperoni evenly over the top of the casserole.
  10. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
  11. Broil for a Golden Top (Optional): For a more golden and crispy top, turn the oven to broil during the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on the casserole to prevent burning.
  12. Cool and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil for a burst of color and freshness.
  13. Serving Suggestions: Serve the Pepperoni Pizza Casserole as a main dish. It pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
  14. Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
  15. Freezing: This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or individual portions. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  16. Reheating: To reheat, bake the thawed casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating individual portions, microwave on high in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring between each interval.
  17. Meal Prep: This Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is ideal for meal prepping. Prepare a batch in advance and portion it out for convenient, low-carb meals throughout the week.
  18. Customization Options: Feel free to customize the casserole by adding other low-carb toppings or vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers. Experiment with different cheese varieties or additional seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
  19. Dietary Considerations: This recipe is keto-friendly, low-carb, and suitable for those following a gluten-free diet. Ensure all ingredients used are certified gluten-free if you have specific dietary restrictions.
  20. Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 400
  • Total Fat: 30 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 12 grams
  • Total Carbohydrates: 8 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 2 grams
  • Net Carbs: 6 grams
  • Protein: 25 grams

SmartPoints®

  • WW SmartPoints®: 9 points per serving (based on the latest WW calculations for keto-friendly ingredients).

Conclusion

Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a satisfying, low-carb meal that captures the classic flavors of pizza in a convenient and hearty casserole form. With its rich, cheesy layers and spicy pepperoni, this dish is perfect for keto enthusiasts and those looking for a nutritious, easy-to-make dinner. The detailed recipe guide ensures you achieve a flavorful and well-balanced casserole every time. Enjoy this comforting dish as part of your ketogenic lifestyle and savor the taste of pizza without the carbs.