Description

A quick, 30-minute weeknight dinner that tastes like pizza but uses a cauliflower crust instead of dough. This gluten-free, low-carb casserole is rich, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing.

Ingredients

Scale

1 large head cauliflower (riced, approx. 600g)
2 large eggs
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot)
1.5 cups low-sugar marinara sauce
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 cup extra mozzarella cheese (for topping)
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
2 tablespoons fresh basil (chopped)
Red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Rice the cauliflower in a food processor. Microwave in a bowl for 3-4 minutes to steam, then wrap in a clean kitchen towel or place in a colander and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the Italian sausage, breaking it apart, for 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary. Stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning during the last minute. Remove from heat.
In a large bowl, combine the dried cauliflower rice, beaten eggs, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan. Mix well.
Press the cauliflower mixture firmly and evenly into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish to form the crust.
Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the browned sausage mixture over the sauce.
Top with the remaining mozzarella, remaining Parmesan, and pepperoni (if using).
Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and red pepper flakes.

Notes

Ensure the cauliflower is thoroughly dried to prevent a soggy casserole. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow it to set. For meal prep, the base can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 320
Sugar: 3
Sodium: 650
Fat: 22
Saturated Fat: 10
Carbohydrates: 8
Fiber: 3
Protein: 22

Keywords: low carb, keto, gluten-free, pizza casserole, cauliflower crust, quick dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food