There's something utterly comforting about the idea of pizza – the melty cheese, zesty sauce, and, of course, the toppings that bring it all together. But what if I told you that you could enjoy all those flavors without compromising on your low-carb lifestyle? That was my revelation when I decided to create this Easy Keto Pizza Bake Casserole.
This one-dish wonder marries the classic taste of pizza with a healthy twist, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious and hearty. Packed with high-quality protein and rich cheeses, this casserole not only satisfies cravings but also aligns perfectly with keto and GAPS diets. Plus, it's versatile enough to please the whole family, whether served fresh from the oven or as a cold snack later on. Join me in transforming pizza night into a wholesome feast that supports your dietary goals!
Why is this KETO Pizza Bake Casserole a must-try?
Simplicity at its finest: This one-dish meal is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight.
Comforting flavors: Experience all the classic pizza tastes you love, packed into a healthy, low-carb casserole.
High-protein goodness: Loaded with eggs, cheese, and savory toppings, it supports your nutritional needs while satisfying your cravings.
Versatile options: Customize your casserole with different toppings like veggies or meats to suit everyone's palate.
Crowd pleaser: Ideal for family dinners, kids and adults alike will enjoy this flavorful dish, making it a hit at the dinner table.
KETO Pizza Bake Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole Base
- Eggs – The primary source of protein that binds the casserole.
- Cream – Adds richness and moisture; for GAPS Diet, substitute with sour cream.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Provides gooey texture and flavor; can be replaced with aged white cheddar.
- Cream Cheese – Enhances creaminess and flavor; consider Brie or Port Salut for a GAPS-friendly alternative.
- Chia Seed Flour – A low-carb thickener that mimics flour; you can make it by grinding chia seeds.
For the Toppings
- Tomato – Fresh and juicy, it introduces moisture and flavor to the dish.
- Olives – Adds a briny, savory depth to enhance the taste experience.
- Pepperoni – Essential for a true pizza feel, providing a salty flavor and meaty texture.
- Dried Basil and Oregano – These seasoning herbs bring out the Italian flavor profile.
- Sea Salt & Onion Powder – Must-have seasonings to elevate overall taste.
For Garnishing (Optional)
- Fresh Basil or Parsley – A lovely way to add fresh flavor and visually brighten up your dish.
This KETO Pizza Bake Casserole is not just a delicious meal; it's a wholesome option for your family's table! Enjoy the simplicity of preparing it all in one dish, while delighting in the classic flavors you love.
How to Make KETO Pizza Bake Casserole
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Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9"x13" casserole dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking. This ensures your casserole comes out beautifully without any mess!
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Blend together eggs, cream cheese, 4 ounces of cheese cubes, chia seed flour, sea salt, and onion powder for 15 seconds on low until just combined. This mixture serves as the rich and creamy base of your casserole.
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Incorporate cream, dried basil, and oregano into your blended mixture; pulse again until evenly distributed. Allow the mixture to settle for 2 minutes before pulsing a final time to achieve a smooth consistency.
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Toss half of the pepperoni with olives and diced tomato in a separate bowl. This combination will bring delightful flavor bursts throughout the casserole!
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Pour the blended mixture into the greased casserole dish and top it with the pepperoni, olive, and tomato mixture, spreading it evenly for balanced flavor.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. After that, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese and additional pepperoni on top. Increase the oven temperature to 375°F and bake for an extra 10 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
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Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and an appealing presentation.
Optional: Pair with a side salad for a refreshing crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
KETO Pizza Bake Casserole Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to add your unique twist to this dish and enjoy the comforting flavors it brings.
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Sausage Swap: Replace pepperoni with cooked sausage for a heartier meat option that’s just as delicious.
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Veggie Boost: Incorporate spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a nutritious upgrade filled with colors and flavors.
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Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or smoked cheddar to create exciting new flavor profiles.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of regular cream and dairy-free cheese for a fully lactose-free version.
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Extra Spice: Add crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to bring some heat for those that love a spicy kick.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh garlic or other dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the aromatic experience.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts such as pine nuts or walnuts before baking for added texture and a nutty flavor.
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GAPS Friendly: Swap out regular cream cheese for cashew cream or a nut-based cheese alternative for a GAPS-compliant choice.
How to Store and Freeze KETO Pizza Bake Casserole
Fridge: Store leftover KETO Pizza Bake Casserole in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain its flavor and freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cut portions wrapped in parchment paper and placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. This ensures convenience for future meals.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat slices in the oven at 300°F for about 20 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through and cheesy once again.
Serving Tip: This delicious casserole can be enjoyed warm from the oven or chilled, making it a versatile choice for any meal occasion!
What to Serve with Keto Pizza Bake Casserole?
Imagine the comforting aroma of warm, cheesy goodness wafting from your kitchen while you gather around the table for a satisfying meal.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad adds a burst of brightness, balancing the rich flavors of the casserole with its crunchy textures. Toss together mixed greens, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette for an invigorating side.
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Garlic Breadsticks: For those who love to indulge, serve warm garlic breadsticks to dip into any leftover sauce. They provide a delightful contrast to the casserole’s creamy body.
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Steamed Broccoli: Tender, steamed broccoli complements this dish beautifully and adds a pop of vibrant color. It’s an excellent way to sneak in some healthy greens without overpowering the meal.
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Antipasto Platter: Create an Italian-inspired antipasto platter with marinated artichokes, olives, and tangy cheeses. The delightful salty bites will enhance the flavors of your casserole and offer variety.
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus bring out the natural sweetness of fresh produce. The caramelized edges will contrast nicely with the soft texture of the casserole.
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Low-Carb Wine: Pair this hearty casserole with a glass of dry red wine, like a Chianti or Cabernet. Its bold flavors will match seamlessly with the savory, cheesy notes of your dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Keto Pizza Bake Casserole options are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the casserole base (eggs, cream cheese, cheese, and chia seed flour) up to 24 hours in advance by blending all ingredients and storing the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To enhance flavors, chop the tomatoes and olives and keep them in a separate container until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, pour the refrigerated mixture into your greased casserole dish, layer the toppings, and bake as directed. This way, you'll have a quick, wholesome meal on hand to satisfy your family's cravings with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for KETO Pizza Bake Casserole
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Even Distribution: Ensure chia seed flour is evenly blended into the mixture to prevent clumping, achieving a smooth texture throughout your casserole.
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Cooling Time: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps it set properly and makes serving easier without crumbling.
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Herb Enhancements: For a flavor boost, feel free to add more Italian herbs or crushed garlic to the mixture, enhancing the deliciousness of your keto pizza bake casserole.
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Weight Measurement: Use a kitchen scale for accuracy when measuring cheese and cream, as variations can alter the casserole’s texture and flavor.
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Customize: Consider switching up toppings! Substitute pepperoni with cooked sausage or add vegetables like bell peppers for extra nutrition while keeping it keto-friendly.
KETO Pizza Bake Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of eggs should I use for this casserole?
Absolutely! Using large, fresh eggs is best for this KETO Pizza Bake Casserole. Fresh eggs provide great binding properties and contribute to the casserole’s rich flavor. If you're following a GAPS diet, organic or pasture-raised eggs can enhance the nutritional value as well.
How should I store leftovers?
Very simply, store any leftover KETO Pizza Bake Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it fresh, I recommend allowing it to cool fully before sealing to prevent condensation from making it soggy.
Can I freeze the casserole for later?
Certainly! To freeze your KETO Pizza Bake Casserole, first, cut it into individual portions. Then, wrap each piece in parchment paper and place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 300°F for about 20 minutes.
What should I do if the casserole comes out too watery?
If your casserole ends up being too watery, it may be due to excess moisture in the tomatoes or olives. I recommend patting the diced tomatoes dry with a paper towel before mixing them in. Additionally, you can bake it a little longer to allow some of that moisture to evaporate and achieve a firmer texture.
Is this casserole suitable for those with dairy allergies?
While this KETO Pizza Bake Casserole is rich in cheese and cream, you can substitute the dairy ingredients to make it dairy-free! Use almond milk or coconut cream instead of cream, and try dairy-free cheese alternatives available at your local health store. Just keep in mind, the taste may slightly vary, but the overall pizza experience will still be there!
Irresistibly Easy KETO Pizza Bake Casserole – One Dish Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9"x13" casserole dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Blend together eggs, cream cheese, 4 ounces of cheese cubes, chia seed flour, sea salt, and onion powder for 15 seconds on low until just combined.
- Incorporate cream, dried basil, and oregano into your blended mixture; pulse again until evenly distributed.
- Toss half of the pepperoni with olives and diced tomato in a separate bowl.
- Pour the blended mixture into the greased casserole dish and top it with the pepperoni, olive, and tomato mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. After that, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese and additional pepperoni on top.
- Increase the oven temperature to 375°F and bake for an extra 10 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
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