Description
This Pizza Casserole (Low Carb) is a quick, comforting, and nourishing dinner that combines smoky turkey bacon, melty plant-based cheese, and a low-carb cauliflower rice base with rich tomato sauce and Italian herbs. Perfect for busy nights, it delivers classic pizza flavors in a hearty casserole form while keeping it light and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup smoked turkey bacon, cooked and chopped
- 2 cups plant-based cheese (mozzarella or blend), shredded
- 3 cups cauliflower rice
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes (natural)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (natural)
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent (optional for thickening sauce)
Instructions
- Prepare the cauliflower rice base: Steam or microwave the cauliflower rice until tender but still firm. Drain any excess moisture thoroughly to prevent a soggy casserole. Spread the cauliflower rice evenly in a greased baking dish.
- Cook the smoked turkey bacon: In a pan over medium heat, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crisp. Chop into bite-sized pieces once cooked to distribute evenly in the casserole.
- Make the tomato sauce: Using the same pan, combine crushed tomatoes (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), garlic powder (natural), smoked paprika (natural), and Italian seasoning (natural). Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors. Stir in the natural gelling agent if using to thicken the sauce.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread half of the tomato sauce over the cauliflower rice base. Sprinkle half of the cooked smoked turkey bacon pieces evenly on top. Add a generous layer of plant-based cheese. Repeat the layering with the remaining tomato sauce, turkey bacon, and finish with a final layer of plant-based cheese on top.
- Bake until bubbly: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and edges begin to crisp. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Drain cauliflower rice thoroughly to avoid excess moisture and sogginess.
- Cook turkey bacon until crispy to add texture and enhance flavor.
- Use a natural gelling agent in the sauce to achieve a thicker consistency if desired.
- Distribute layers evenly for a balanced flavor in every bite.
- Allow the casserole to rest after baking to help it set for easier slicing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 casserole
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: pizza casserole, low carb, cauliflower rice, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, quick dinner, gluten free, comforting