Ingredients
For the Base:
1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
½ cup low-carb marinara sauce (sugar-free, like Rao’s)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Layers:
1 cup ricotta cheese or cream cheese (softened)
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)
¼ cup Parmesan cheese
20–25 slices pepperoni
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a round or square baking dish.
- Cook the Meat Layer
In a skillet, brown the ground beef (or sausage) until fully cooked.
Drain excess fat.
Add marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 3–5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Assemble the Casserole
Spread the meat mixture evenly on the bottom of the baking dish.
Add small spoonfuls of ricotta or cream cheese on top and gently spread.
Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar over the top.
Layer pepperoni slices across the top (like in your image).
Sprinkle with Parmesan.
- Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
For extra crisp pepperoni, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
- Serve
Let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
Enjoy hot — tastes like a deep-dish pizza without the carbs!
Nutrition (per serving, 6 servings)
Calories: 420
Fat: 33g
Protein: 28g
Net Carbs: 4g
Enjoy