Low Carb Crustless Pizza Bowl
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450 g) ground meat (beef or a beef/pork mix)
– 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2–3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced or cut into thick rings
– 1 cup pizza sauce (about 240 ml) or seasoned tomato sauce
– 1–2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 1½–2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or pizza cheese blend)
– Optional: pepperoni slices, sliced mushrooms, sliced olives, grated Parmesan, or fresh basil for garnish
Low-carb base/alternatives:
– Use bell pepper slices as the “crust” base, or substitute with lightly cooked riced cauliflower or broccoli if you prefer more vegetables.
Suggested per-individual bowl (medium size):
– 150 g ground meat
– 1/2 cup pizza sauce
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1/2 small onion
– 3/4 cup shredded cheese
Instructions (brief):
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, warm the oil and sauté the chopped onion until soft (3–4 minutes). Add the garlic and cook briefly.
3. Add the ground meat and cook until browned and broken up. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Stir in the pizza sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer 3–5 minutes to combine flavors.
5. Prepare individual baking bowls: arrange bell pepper slices in the bottom to form a “base.” (If using riced cauliflower or broccoli, lightly cook and press into the bottom.)
6. Divide the meat sauce among the bowls, then top each with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and any optional toppings.
7. Bake 12–18 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For extra browning, broil 1–2 minutes (watch closely).
8. Garnish with fresh basil or grated Parmesan and serve hot.
