Cauliflower Pepperoni Pizza Casserole
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Nutrition Values (per serving):
- Calories: 240
- Total Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 640mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 15g
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup of marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup of mini pepperoni slices
- 1/4 cup of sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup green bell peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup of sliced red onions
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Half a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes is optional.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, blanch the cauliflower florets for about 5 minutes or until they are just tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a small saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over low heat. Add the dried oregano, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. After a few minutes of simmering, turn off the heat.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
- Place the blanched cauliflower florets on top of the sauce.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower.
- Add the sliced olives, green bell peppers, and red onions on top of the cheese.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the veggies.
- Add the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Distribute the mini pepperoni slices evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for a burst of fresh flavor.
Nutrition Information:
This Cauliflower Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional pizza, making it suitable for those following a keto or low-carb diet. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition values per serving:
- Calories: 240
- Total Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 640mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 15g
Benefits:
- Cauliflower is a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin C and vitamin K.
- Mozzarella cheese provides protein and calcium.
- The marinara sauce offers the antioxidant benefits of tomatoes and adds a burst of flavor.
- The colorful bell peppers and olives add extra vitamins and fiber.
This Cauliflower Pepperoni Pizza Casserole is not only a healthier alternative to traditional pizza but also a tasty way to enjoy the flavors of pizza without the excess carbs. It’s perfect for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake while still satisfying their pizza cravings. Enjoy!
