Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl: The Ultimate No Dough Delight

Looking for a delicious and satisfying dinner that won’t ruin your low-carb goals? A low carb crustless pizza bowl might just become your new favorite go-to. This dish packs all the flavor of a traditional pizza—gooey cheese, zesty marinara, seasoned meat, and savory toppings—without the carb-heavy crust. Whether you’re on a keto diet, cutting carbs, or just craving something comforting and easy, this no-dough option delivers big flavor with fewer calories and carbs.

In this article, you’ll learn everything about creating your own low carb crustless pizza bowl at home. We’ll walk through ingredients, nutrition, storage tips, variations, and more. By the end, you’ll have a complete guide to mastering this tasty and healthy recipe—plus answers to some of the most common questions about pizza bowls and carb counts.

Don’t miss our keto charcuterie board ideas for another fun and easy low-carb meal to add to your rotation.

What is a Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl?

Understanding the Concept

At its core, a low carb crustless pizza bowl is exactly what it sounds like: pizza toppings layered in a bowl without the crust. Think of it as a pizza casserole or pizza bake—loaded with cheese, meat, veggies, and sauce, but completely skipping the dough. It’s oven-baked and served hot in a dish, giving you the indulgence of pizza without all the extra carbs from traditional or even gluten-free crusts.

It’s become especially popular among those following ketogenic or diabetic-friendly diets because it allows full control over ingredients and macronutrients. You can personalize your bowl with high-protein meats, low-carb veggies, or spicy pepperoni, and still stay within your diet goals.

How It Fits into Keto and Low-Carb Diets

If you’re following a ketogenic lifestyle, staying under 50 grams of carbs a day is essential—and meals like this help make that easy. A standard slice of pizza can contain 30+ grams of carbs from the crust alone. In contrast, a low carb crustless pizza bowl eliminates that excess and focuses on high-fat, moderate-protein components.

By using a low-sugar marinara sauce, quality cheeses, and toppings like sausage, olives, and mushrooms, you can enjoy a filling meal that aligns with your macros. Plus, since there’s no crust, this dish is naturally gluten-free—making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4

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Description

Get all the bold, melty goodness of your favorite pizzeria pie—without the crust! This low carb crustless pizza bowl is layered with zesty sausage, sugar-free marinara, sautéed veggies, and bubbling cheese. It’s rich, savory, and satisfying in every bite—perfect for keto lovers, busy weeknights, or anyone craving comfort food with a healthy twist. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s pizza night reimagined—low on carbs, big on flavor.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground Italian sausage (or ground beef)

• ½ cup low-carb marinara sauce (sugar-free)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup sliced pepperoni

• ½ cup sliced mushrooms

• ½ cup diced bell peppers (any color)

• ¼ cup sliced black olives

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Fresh basil, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease 4 oven-safe bowls or ramekins with olive oil.

2. Cook the Meat
In a skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up as it browns. Cook until fully cooked through.

3. Add Sauce and Seasoning
Stir in ½ cup marinara sauce, garlic powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes to combine flavors.

4. Assemble the Bowls
Divide the meat mixture evenly among the 4 bowls. Add your toppings: layer with bell peppers, mushrooms, black olives, and pepperoni slices.

5. Add Cheese
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over each bowl to fully cover the toppings.

6. Bake
Place bowls on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

7. Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven. Top each with fresh basil, serve hot, and enjoy your low carb crustless pizza bowl!

Notes

• Use a sugar-free marinara: Check labels—aim for sauces with 3–4g net carbs or less per serving to keep the dish keto.
• Swap the protein: Ground turkey, ground beef, grilled chicken, or even pulled pork work great if you want variety.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the meat and double up on mushrooms, olives, zucchini, or spinach for a satisfying meatless bowl.
• Cheese matters: Use full-fat shredded cheese—pre-shredded blends work fine but melt better if you shred your own.
• Meal prep friendly: Assemble bowls ahead and refrigerate uncooked up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
• Microwave tip: If reheating, microwave in 30-second bursts to avoid rubbery cheese or overheating the bowl.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños, crushed red pepper, or a dash of hot sauce if you love heat.

• Prep Time: 10
• Cook Time: 15

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 420 kca

Why Choose a Crustless Pizza Bowl Over Traditional Pizza?

Health Benefits of Skipping the Crust

Choosing a low carb crustless pizza bowl over your usual pizza isn’t just a matter of cutting carbs—it’s a step toward better nutrition, especially if you’re following a low-carb or keto lifestyle. When you ditch the crust, you also cut down on refined flour, gluten, and unnecessary calories. Here are some real benefits of going crustless:

• Lower blood sugar impact: Without a carb-loaded crust, your blood sugar levels remain more stable, especially important for those managing insulin sensitivity or diabetes.
• Fewer empty calories: Most pizza crusts are made with refined grains, which offer little nutritional value. Replacing that with more vegetables or protein-packed ingredients boosts the overall health value of the dish.
• Better digestion: Many people find crustless pizza easier to digest. No dough means less bloating or post-meal sluggishness.
• Ideal for keto & paleo diets: Since this dish removes most of the carbs, it’s perfect for those eating keto, paleo, or low-glycemic-index diets.

So, when you choose a low carb crustless pizza bowl, you’re making a choice that supports your wellness without giving up flavor.

Macro Comparison: Crustless vs Regular Pizza

Let’s break it down and compare the macros between a traditional slice of pepperoni pizza and a serving of our crustless pizza bowl:

As you can see, the low carb crustless pizza bowl packs in more healthy fats and protein, while slashing carbs by over 80%. The higher calorie count is due to quality fats from cheese and meat—essential for keto success.

Discover great ideas like this zero carb pizza crust chicken if you want another no-dough option with a bit more crunch.

Best Ingredients for the Ultimate Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl

Low-Carb Veggies and Protein Options

The beauty of a low carb crustless pizza bowl lies in its flexibility. You can mix and match your favorite toppings while keeping the carb count low. Here’s how to build a flavorful and satisfying bowl:

Protein Base Options:

• Ground Italian sausage (classic and spicy)
• Ground beef or turkey
• Grilled chicken or rotisserie leftovers
• Crumbled bacon or chopped ham

These proteins are low in carbs and high in satiating fat and protein—making them perfect for keto diets.

Low-Carb Vegetables (per ½ cup, approx. carbs):

• Mushrooms (1.5g): earthy and meaty in texture
• Bell peppers (3g): sweet and colorful crunch
• Black olives (1g): briny and rich
• Spinach or kale (less than 1g): nutrient-dense greens
• Zucchini (2g): a soft veggie that melts into the bowl beautifully

You can lightly sauté these veggies before layering them into your bowl to enhance their flavor and reduce wateriness during baking.

Choosing the Right Cheese and Sauce

Cheese is the heart of any good pizza, crust or not. To make your bowl delicious and keto-compliant, go for these options:

Cheese Selections:

• Mozzarella: delivers a perfect melt and that iconic cheesy pizza stretch
• Parmesan: adds saltiness and depth
• Cheddar or provolone: great for flavor layering
• Cream cheese (optional): creates a richer base if you want a creamier texture

Low-Carb Sauce Tips:
Not all marinara sauces are created equal. Choose brands without added sugar and with no more than 3–4g net carbs per serving.

DIY Marinara Option:

• Canned crushed tomatoes
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder, oregano, and basil
• Simmer until thickened

Using a sugar-free sauce ensures your low carb crustless pizza bowl stays within keto macros.

Don’t miss our keto sourdough bread recipe for a delicious side that pairs well with your pizza bowl—without compromising your carb limit.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl

Full Ingredient List with Nutritional Tips

Craving pizza without the carbs? This low carb crustless pizza bowl is the ultimate solution. It delivers all the savory satisfaction of a deep-dish pizza—without the carb-heavy crust that derails low-carb goals. This recipe is fast, family-friendly, and keto-approved.

Here’s all you need to make the ultimate low carb crustless pizza bowl right in your own kitchen:

Per Serving (makes 4 bowls):
Calories: 420 | Net Carbs: 6g | Fat: 32g | Protein: 25g

This low carb crustless pizza bowl recipe is not only quick, but it’s also perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. You can even customize the ingredients to match your macros or cravings.

Simple Instructions for Quick Prep & Bake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly coat 4 oven-safe bowls with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray. These bowls will hold all the layers of your low carb crustless pizza bowl as it bakes.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage Base
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned. As it cooks, break the meat apart to form a flavorful, crumbled base. This hearty layer forms the foundation of your low carb crustless pizza bowl.

Step 3: Mix in the Sauce and Spices
Once browned, stir in ½ cup of low-carb marinara sauce. Add garlic powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 4: Build Your Bowls
Divide the meat and sauce evenly into each bowl. Next, add your veggies: layer in mushrooms, bell peppers, and black olives. These veggies add volume and flavor while keeping the carbs low.

Step 5: Top with Cheese and Pepperoni
Now comes the fun part—add a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then arrange pepperoni slices over the top. This combo makes the low carb crustless pizza bowl taste just like your favorite pizzeria pie—without the bread.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the bowls on a baking sheet and slide them into the oven. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling. This step locks in all the goodness of your low carb crustless pizza bowl.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Take it out of the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve right away. The end result? A bubbling, cheesy, deeply satisfying low carb crustless pizza bowl you’ll want to make again and again.

Check out our zucchini breadwich recipe for another low-carb idea that pairs well with your pizza bowl or makes a perfect on-the-go lunch.

Nutritional Breakdown and Carb Count

Calories, Carbs, Fat, and Protein per Serving

If you’re tracking macros or just watching your carb intake, knowing the breakdown of your low carb crustless pizza bowl is essential. This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also built for performance. Whether you’re on keto, diabetic, or low-carb plans, it delivers the fuel your body needs without the sugar spike.

Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving (1 bowl out of 4):

Pro tip: The low carb crustless pizza bowl can be made even lower in carbs by skipping bell peppers or using fewer olives.

This dish contains plenty of healthy fats (especially from olive oil, cheese, and sausage), making it ideal for anyone following a keto or low-carb high-fat (LCHF) meal plan. The moderate protein keeps you full, while the low sugar ensures a minimal impact on blood glucose.

Is It Truly Keto-Friendly? Let’s Break It Down

To qualify as keto-friendly, a meal should generally stay under 10g of net carbs per serving, focus on high-fat content, and include moderate protein.

Here’s how the low carb crustless pizza bowl checks all those boxes:

• ✔ Net carbs: Only 6g per serving—well below the 10g keto threshold.
• ✔ High fat: With 32g of fat, this meal helps fuel your body with ketones.
• ✔ Protein-balanced: At 25g, the protein supports muscle health without excess that could convert into glucose.
• ✔ No grains or starches: Zero bread, pasta, or flour in sight.

Compared to a typical slice of pepperoni pizza—which contains around 33g carbs, mostly from the crust—this crustless version is over 80% lower in carbs. It delivers the same cheesy, meaty satisfaction without sabotaging your carb goals.

Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison:

Don’t miss our keto popsicles for a sweet, refreshing way to end your low-carb meal on a high note.

Popular Variations and Customizations

One of the greatest perks of a low carb crustless pizza bowl is how simple it is to customize to your taste. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, following a stricter keto plan, or just like variety, this no-dough recipe has room to flex. Whether you’re a veggie lover, meat enthusiast, or dairy-free eater—there’s a variation to suit every preference.

Spicy, Veggie-Only, and Meat Lovers’ Versions

Here are some of the most popular and satisfying variations of the low carb crustless pizza bowl:

1. Spicy Jalapeño Kick Bowl

Add sliced jalapeños, swap in spicy Italian sausage, and finish with a drizzle of hot sauce or crushed red pepper for a fire-loaded flavor bomb.

2. Veggie Supreme Bowl

Skip the meats and pile on the low-carb veggies like:

• Zucchini slices
• Spinach
• Roasted red peppers
• Artichoke hearts
• Cherry tomatoes (sparingly)

This veggie-forward bowl still keeps net carbs low while delivering plenty of color, texture, and nutrition.

3. Meat Lover’s Bowl

Add bacon crumbles, pepperoni, sausage, ground beef, and a few slices of ham for a protein-heavy feast. Just watch portion sizes if you’re monitoring sodium.

Note: Adding extra meats to your low carb crustless pizza bowl will increase protein and fat, which works perfectly for high-fat, low-carb macros.

Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free Options

Want to make a dairy-free version of this low carb crustless pizza bowl? Absolutely. Here’s how:

• Opt for dairy-free shredded cheese made from almond, coconut, or other plant-based alternatives
• Skip cheese entirely and add an extra egg to the base mixture for richness
• Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor

It’s already gluten-free by nature, since there’s no crust involved. Just ensure your marinara sauce and deli meats are free of hidden gluten or starch-based fillers.

Explore more delicious options like this onion cheese sheet pan—another keto-friendly, baked dish bursting with flavor and low in carbs.

Tip: Try adding a cracked egg on top before baking to turn your bowl into a pizza-inspired shakshuka.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Tips

Making a low carb crustless pizza bowl doesn’t have to be a same-day task. Whether you’re planning weeknight dinners or prepping for your keto meal plan, this recipe holds up well over time. With the right storage and reheating method, you can enjoy a fresh, melty bowl anytime you like.

How to Prep in Advance

Here’s how to make your low carb crustless pizza bowl ahead of time—without sacrificing quality.

Prep Option #1: Full Assembly, No Bake

• Brown the sausage and mix in the sauce and spices.
• Layer meat, toppings, and cheese in oven-safe containers.
• Cover tightly with foil or a lid.
• Refrigerate for up to 48 hours before baking.

Prep Option #2: Batch Cook the Base

• Cook the meat and sauce mixture in bulk.
• Store it separately and assemble bowls when needed.
• This option keeps your ingredients fresher longer and offers more flexibility.

Meal Prep Hack: Divide your ingredients into individual portions using glass meal-prep bowls with lids. Stack them in the fridge for a quick grab-and-bake meal.

Freezing, Storing, and Reheating Instructions

Refrigeration Tips
After baking, your low carb crustless pizza bowl can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing it in an airtight container.

Freezing Instructions
Yes, you can freeze them! Here’s how:

• Assemble the bowls but don’t bake.
• Wrap each tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

To bake from frozen, remove foil and bake uncovered at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.

Reheating Tips
For best results:

• Microwave: Heat on medium for 2–3 minutes, then high for 30 seconds.
• Oven: Reheat uncovered at 350°F for 10–12 minutes until hot.

Avoid over-microwaving to prevent the cheese from getting rubbery.

Looking for inspiration? Try our cottage cheese mint ice cream as a guilt-free keto dessert to cool things down after your hot pizza bowl.

Serving Ideas and Pairings

A low carb crustless pizza bowl is a meal in itself—but when paired with the right sides or additions, it becomes an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re serving guests, prepping family meals, or just leveling up your weeknight dinner, these smart pairings and presentation ideas can take your pizza bowl to the next level.

Low-Carb Sides to Serve with Pizza Bowls

If you’re sticking to a low-carb lifestyle, you’ll want side dishes that complement the low carb crustless pizza bowl without pushing you over your daily limit. Here are some perfect pairings:

1. Garlic Roasted Zucchini

Toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic powder, and a blend of Italian herbs. Roast at 400°F until crisp-tender.

2. Caesar Salad (No Croutons)

A classic pairing. Use Romaine, Parmesan, and a creamy Caesar dressing. Skip the croutons to keep it keto.

3. Parmesan Cauliflower Bites

Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, grated Parmesan, and paprika, then roast or air-fry until tender and golden.

4. Stuffed Mini Peppers

Stuff mini bell peppers with cream cheese, chopped chives, and bacon bits for a quick, tasty side to your pizza bowl.

5. Keto Breadsticks or Chaffles

Made from almond flour or cheese-based dough, these offer a satisfying bread-like texture without the carbs.

Don’t miss our cheese and potato pinwheels easily customizable with keto cheese dough for a delicious low-carb twist!

How to Plate It for Family or Guests

Presentation matters—even when it’s low carb! Here’s how to impress with your low carb crustless pizza bowl:

• For family dinners: Serve in deep ceramic bowls with extra cheese grated on top and a side of leafy greens.
• For gatherings: Bake individual bowls in ramekins and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for color.
• For kids: Let them “build their own bowl” with toppings they love—this also encourages healthier eating habits.

Elevate your plate with a side of zucchini noodles, a spoonful of ricotta, or a drizzle of infused olive oil for a gourmet finish.

Want to end your meal with something sweet? Check out our cottage cheese mango ice cream for a high-protein dessert that feels indulgent—but fits your macros.

Crustless Pizza Bowl Vs. Other Keto Meals

The low carb crustless pizza bowl has become a go-to meal for low-carb eaters—and it’s easy to see why. It’s fast, flexible, filling, and totally satisfying. But how does it really stack up against other trendy keto options? Let’s break it down.

How It Compares to Other Popular Keto Recipes

Here’s how your favorite low carb crustless pizza bowl compares to other keto-friendly staples:

The low carb crustless pizza bowl stands out for its speed and satisfaction. It gives you that indulgent pizza flavor, is highly customizable, and still works as a meal prep option. You don’t need specialty ingredients like almond flour or egg replacements. Most of what you need is already in your fridge.

Bonus: The low carb crustless pizza bowl is a hit with kids too! It has that irresistible pizza flavor, comforting vibes, and even hides a few veggies—win-win!

Why It Might Be Your Go-To Weekly Dinner

Let’s recap why this dish earns a permanent place in your weekly meal rotation:

• Quick and easy to make (done in 25 minutes!)
• Endlessly customizable (veggie, spicy, meat-lover, dairy-free)
• Minimal cleanup (just a skillet and oven-safe bowls)
• Perfect macros for low-carb, high-fat eating
• Crowd-pleaser for family, guests, or meal prep

And let’s be honest—sometimes you just want pizza. The low carb crustless pizza bowl lets you indulge that craving while staying totally on track.

Learn more about low-carb creativity in meals with our keto charcuterie board guide—perfect for entertaining or snack-style dinners.

The low carb crustless pizza bowl proves you can enjoy bold flavor while staying true to your low-carb or keto goals. With easy ingredients, endless ways to customize, and just 6g net carbs per serving, it’s everything you want in a meal—delicious, simple, and totally guilt-free.

Whether you’re new to keto, managing your blood sugar, or just looking to reduce carbs without giving up comfort food, the low carb crustless pizza bowl belongs in your weekly meal plan. It’s fast to prep, family-approved, and endlessly customizable.

From freezer-friendly prep to flavor-packed toppings, this dish isn’t just a “pizza alternative”—it’s a whole new way to enjoy pizza night without the guilt.

Check out our keto charcuterie board to build out a full low-carb dinner spread that pairs perfectly with your pizza bowl.

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