Description
A comforting low-carb Pizza Casserole that combines savory smoked turkey bacon, melty plant-based cheese, and a nutritious zucchini or cauliflower base, offering all the flavors of classic pizza with a healthy twist. Easy to make, family-friendly, and perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis or 1 small cauliflower head (grated or pulsed)
- 1 cup plant-based cheese (mozzarella style)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (natural)
- 1 tbsp natural gelling agent
Proteins
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon (chopped)
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup diced mushrooms
Seasonings
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (natural)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Veggie Base: Finely grate zucchini or pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice. Use a clean dish towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out as much moisture as possible to prevent sogginess.
- Cook the Turkey Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook smoked turkey bacon until crispy. Chop into bite-sized pieces. Reserve some bacon fat to sauté the vegetables or drain it completely, based on preference.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Using the same skillet, lightly sauté diced bell peppers and mushrooms until just tender. Combine with the grated veggie base for the casserole foundation.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the veggie base, sautéed vegetables, chopped turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, tomato sauce (natural), Italian seasoning (natural), and natural gelling agent. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Bake Your Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased oven-safe dish. Sprinkle additional plant-based cheese on top for a golden crust. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing to help it set perfectly for easier serving.
Notes
- Drain the veggie base thoroughly to avoid a watery casserole.
- Use quality plant-based cheese with good meltability for best texture.
- Ensure proteins are fully cooked before baking.
- Customize seasonings by adding garlic powder or smoked paprika if desired.
- Let the casserole rest after baking for cleaner serving and enhanced flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6th of casserole)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: low carb, pizza casserole, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, gluten free, easy dinner, healthy pizza, vegetable casserole