Crustless Pizza
If you’ve ever craved pizza but wanted to skip the carbs, you’re in for a treat with this scrumptious Crustless Pizza recipe. Imagine all the flavors of a classic pizza without the guilt of a heavy crust. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious yet simple to prepare. With savory ground beef, a medley of spices, and a generous layer of melted cheese, this crustless marvel is bound to become a family favorite.
What Sets This Recipe Apart
This Crustless Pizza stands out because it combines all the traditional toppings you love without the need for a doughy base. It’s a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit your taste buds. Whether you prefer pepperoni, veggies, or an extra cheesy experience, this recipe allows you to customize it just how you like it. Plus, it’s quick to whip up and makes for excellent leftovers!
Ingredient Rundown
To make your own delicious Crustless Pizza, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the onions and beef, giving a nice flavor base.
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey) – The main protein that provides heartiness.
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – A must-have for that aromatic kick.
- 1 cup low-sugar pizza sauce – The quintessential pizza flavor without the added sugars.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – For that classic Italian herb taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – Another herb that complements the pizza sauce beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – The gooey, melty cheese that binds it all together.
- 1 cup pepperoni slices – A beloved topping that adds spice.
- Sliced mushrooms, black olives, bell peppers – Optional toppings for extra flavor and texture.
Recommended Tools
To create your Crustless Pizza, you’ll find these tools handy:
- Skillet – For browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables.
- Baking dish – Where the magic happens as you layer your pizza ingredients.
- Spatula – To mix and serve your delicious creation.
- Oven – To melt the cheese to perfection.
Crustless Pizza — Do This Next
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This sets the stage for perfectly melted cheese and a well-cooked pizza.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until the meat is browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 4: Mix in the Pizza Sauce
Once the meat is browned, lower the heat and pour in the low-sugar pizza sauce. Stir well to combine all the flavors and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Layer in the Baking Dish
Transfer the meat mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom. This will be your pizza base.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Toppings
Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the meat mixture. Then layer your chosen toppings, such as pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, and bell peppers. Finish with the remaining cheese on top.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Let the Crustless Pizza cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve. Enjoy this guilt-free delight with your favorite side salad or on its own!
If You’re Out Of…
- Olive oil: Use any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil.
- Ground beef: Substitute with ground chicken or a plant-based protein.
- Low-sugar pizza sauce: Use homemade tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes with Italian spices.
- Mozzarella cheese: Try cheddar or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Avoid These Traps
When making your Crustless Pizza, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t overcook the beef; it can become dry. Aim for a juicy texture.
- Be cautious with seasoning; always start with less salt and adjust to taste.
- Use a baking dish that is not too large; spreading the mixture too thin can prevent it from baking evenly.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing to ensure cleaner cuts and easier serving.
Make-Ahead & Storage
This Crustless Pizza is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the meat mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll keep for about 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Ask & Learn
Can I freeze the Crustless Pizza?
Yes, you can freeze it! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.
What are some good topping combinations?
Feel free to get creative! You could try a barbecue chicken version with BBQ sauce, shredded chicken, and red onions or a veggie delight with spinach, artichokes, and feta cheese.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein or skip it altogether. You can load it up with your favorite veggies instead!
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The Crustless Pizza is done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown on top. A good indicator is the aroma that fills your kitchen!
Time to Try It
There you have it! A simple and satisfying way to enjoy pizza without the crust. This Crustless Pizza is not just easy to make, but it’s also packed with flavor and can be customized to your liking. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in a slice of happiness. Happy cooking!
Crustless Pizza
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat Your Oven - Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic - Heat olive oil in a large skillet, add onions, and cook until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef - Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
- Step 4: Mix in the Pizza Sauce - Lower the heat, add pizza sauce, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Step 5: Layer in the Baking Dish - Transfer the meat mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Step 6: Add Cheese and Toppings - Layer half of the cheese, followed by your toppings, and finish with the remaining cheese.
- Step 7: Bake - Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Step 8: Serve and Enjoy - Let it cool slightly, then slice and serve.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute ground beef with plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
- Customize your toppings based on what you have on hand.
- This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
