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Million Dollar Keto Pizza Casserole Prep - A Hearty, Make-Ahead Favorite

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or hot; remove casings if needed)
  • 1 pound ground beef (85–90% lean works well)
  • 1 small onion, diced (optional for strict keto; can swap for onion powder)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups no-sugar-added marinara (check labels; about 12 ounces)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup full-fat ricotta (or cottage cheese for extra protein)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella, divided
  • 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • 1/2 green bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
  • Olive oil for sautéing
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or two smaller dishes if you want separate portions.
  2. Cook the meat: Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of olive oil. Add the Italian sausage and ground beef, breaking them up as they brown. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Add aromatics: When the meat is mostly cooked, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Sauce it up: Pour in the no-sugar-added marinara. Stir in oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3–4 minutes to let the flavors come together. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  5. Make the creamy layer: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, ricotta (or cottage cheese), and Parmesan until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  6. Layer the casserole: Spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. Spoon the meat sauce on top and spread it out.
  7. Add toppings: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella over the meat layer. Top with pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, and bell pepper, or your favorite keto-friendly toppings.
  8. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden at the edges.
  9. Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes. This helps it set for cleaner slices. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like.
  10. Meal-prep tip: Portion into airtight containers once slightly cooled. Label with the date so you stay on track during the week.