Description

This low-carb Pizza Casserole combines smoky turkey bacon with melty plant-based cheese, fresh low-carb vegetables, and a savory tomato sauce infused with garlic and Italian herbs. It offers a quick, flavorful, and versatile meal perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, delivering all the classic pizza flavors in a comforting baked casserole.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Cheese

6 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
1 ½ cups plant-based cheese, grated

Vegetables

1 medium zucchini, diced
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup fresh spinach leaves

Sauce and Seasonings

1 cup tomato sauce (natural)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian herbs (natural) – dried basil, oregano, or a mixed blend

Base and Binder

¾ cup almond flour
1 tablespoon natural gelling agent

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Chop smoked turkey bacon into bite-sized pieces. Dice zucchini and bell peppers. Grate the plant-based cheese. In a bowl, mix tomato sauce (natural) with minced garlic and Italian herbs (natural) until well combined.
Cook and Sauté: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked turkey bacon pieces until crisp. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, lightly sauté the zucchini and bell peppers just until tender but still retaining a slight crunch and vibrant color.
Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour with the natural gelling agent. Add the seasoned tomato sauce mixture and stir well. Fold in the sautéed vegetables and cooked turkey bacon, mixing evenly to distribute flavors.
Assemble the Casserole: Grease a casserole dish with a small amount of oil. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Generously sprinkle the grated plant-based cheese on top, covering all edges for a melty, golden crust.
Bake Until Golden: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. Remove from the oven and allow to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to let flavors meld and texture firm up.

Notes

Use fresh basil or oregano added just before serving to enhance aroma and flavor.
Sauté vegetables lightly to preserve texture and prevent sogginess.
Lightly toast almond flour before mixing to deepen the nutty flavor and improve the casserole’s texture.
Be generous with plant-based cheese to create a perfect melty top crust.
Let the casserole rest after baking for the best texture and flavor melding.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/6th casserole)
Calories: 280
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: low carb, pizza casserole, plant-based cheese, turkey bacon, keto friendly, gluten free, vegetarian options