Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl

A comfort classic reinvented—Midwest-style.

In the heartland of America, where open fields meet open hearts, food is more than fuel—it’s connection. This Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl captures the spirit of those pizza nights from years past, but with a wholesome, carb-conscious spin. Packed with the bold, savory flavors of Italian sausage, melty mozzarella, and sautéed vegetables, this dish is warm, satisfying, and endlessly customizable.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1 pound ground Italian sausage

• 1 cup sliced bell peppers (any color or mix)

• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)

• 1 cup marinara sauce (sugar-free)

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup sliced black olives

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Place four oven-safe bowls or ramekins on a baking sheet for easy transfer later.

2. Cook the Sausage

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks.

• Drain excess fat, if needed.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

• To the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and mushrooms.

• Sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened and slightly golden.

4. Build the Flavor Base

• Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).

• Let the mixture simmer for 3–5 minutes to blend the flavors.

5. Assemble the Pizza Bowls

• Evenly divide the sausage and vegetable mixture among the four oven-safe bowls.

• Top each bowl with:

  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese

  • A handful of black olives

6. Bake to Melted Perfection

• Bake the bowls in your preheated oven for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and lightly golden on top.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Remove from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes.

• Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

• Serve warm with your favorite low-carb sides.

Perfect Pairings

These bowls are rich and cheesy—great alongside:

• A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette

• Roasted garlic broccoli or zucchini noodles

• A warm tomato basil soup

• Homemade garlic parmesan crisps for added crunch

Variations & Tips

• Vegetarian Option: Replace sausage with sautéed zucchini, eggplant, spinach, or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

• ️ Kick It Up: Add chopped jalapeños, hot Italian sausage, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

• Cheese Swap: Try shredded provolone, cheddar, or a mix of Italian cheeses.

• Herb Boost: Mix in fresh oregano, thyme, or rosemary for extra depth.

• Make-Ahead: Assemble bowls ahead of time and refrigerate. Just pop them in the oven when ready to serve.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 410

• Protein: 28g

• Carbohydrates: 7g

• Fat: 30g

• Fiber: 2g

• Net Carbs: 5g