Craving a hearty, satisfying pizza without the carb overload? Look no further! Our keto meat lovers pizza is the answer to your prayers. This mouthwatering creation combines the rich flavors of various meats with a crispy, low-carb crust that will make you forget you’re on a diet. Perfect for dinner or a filling lunch, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your keto meal rotation.
The Ultimate Keto-Friendly Pizza Experience
Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of pizza loaded with savory meats, gooey cheese, and a perfectly crisp crust – all while staying true to your low-carb lifestyle. This keto meat lovers pizza delivers on all fronts, offering a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies even the most intense pizza cravings.
A Carnivore’s Dream Come True
For meat enthusiasts following a ketogenic diet, this recipe is nothing short of a dream come true. We’ve packed this pizza with a variety of high-quality proteins, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor and keeping you satiated for hours.
Now, let’s dive into the details of this delectable keto creation.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the crust:
– 2 cups almond flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 tsp salt
For the toppings:
– 1/2 cup low-carb pizza sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 4 oz pepperoni slices
– 4 oz cooked and crumbled Italian sausage
– 4 oz cooked and diced bacon
– 2 oz sliced ham
– 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Tools required:
– Large mixing bowl
– Whisk
– Spatula
– Parchment paper
– Baking sheet or pizza stone
– Rolling pin (optional)
– Pizza cutter
Preparation Method:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, baking powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure even distribution of flavors and leavening agents.
3. Add the eggs to the dry mixture and mix thoroughly with a spatula. The dough will be sticky at first, but keep mixing until it forms a cohesive ball. This process helps develop the proteins in the almond flour, creating a more stable crust.
4. Place a sheet of parchment paper on your baking sheet or pizza stone. Transfer the dough onto the parchment paper and cover it with another sheet of parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to shape the crust.
5. Using your hands or a rolling pin, press or roll the dough into a circular shape, about 12 inches in diameter and 1/4 inch thick. Take your time with this step to ensure an even thickness throughout the crust, which will result in uniform cooking.
6. Remove the top sheet of parchment paper and use your fingers to create a slightly raised edge around the perimeter of the crust. This rim will help contain the toppings and give your pizza a more authentic appearance.
7. Transfer the crust (still on the parchment paper) to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until it begins to turn golden brown. This par-baking step is essential for achieving a crispy base that can support the weight of the toppings without becoming soggy.
8. While the crust is baking, prepare your toppings. If you haven’t already, cook and crumble the Italian sausage and bacon. Slice the ham and pepperoni if needed. Having all your toppings ready will make the assembly process quicker and more efficient.
9. Remove the par-baked crust from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This brief cooling period allows the crust to firm up slightly, making it easier to handle and less likely to break when adding toppings.
10. Spread the low-carb pizza sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges. The sauce adds moisture and flavor, but be careful not to use too much, as it can make the crust soggy.
11. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. This first layer of cheese acts as a barrier between the sauce and the meat toppings, helping to prevent the crust from becoming too moist.
12. Arrange the pepperoni, crumbled Italian sausage, diced bacon, and sliced ham evenly over the cheese. Be generous with the meats – this is a meat lovers pizza, after all! If using, add the sliced black olives for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
13. Top the meat layer with the remaining mozzarella cheese. This final cheese layer will melt and bind all the toppings together, creating that classic pizza appearance and texture.
14. Sprinkle the dried oregano and red pepper flakes (if using) over the top of the pizza. These herbs and spices add an extra layer of flavor that complements the rich meats and cheese.
15. Carefully transfer the pizza back into the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the crust are golden brown. Keep a close eye on the pizza during this final baking stage to prevent burning.
16. Once done, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the cheese to set slightly and makes cutting and serving easier.
17. Use a pizza cutter to slice the pizza into 8 equal pieces. Serve immediately while still hot and enjoy your keto meat lovers pizza!
Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 8 slices)
– Calories: 320
– Total Fat: 26g
– Saturated Fat: 9g
– Cholesterol: 85mg
– Sodium: 680mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 5g
– Dietary Fiber: 2g
– Net Carbs: 3g
– Protein: 20g
Notes and Tips
1. Customize your meats: Feel free to experiment with different combinations of keto-friendly meats. Grilled chicken, ground beef, or even anchovies can be great additions or substitutions.
2. Cheese variations: While mozzarella is traditional, try mixing in other low-carb cheeses like cheddar, Gouda, or Gruyère for added flavor complexity.
3. Veggie additions: For added nutrients and flavor, consider incorporating low-carb vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
4. Make ahead: You can prepare the crust in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to a month. Just thaw and reheat before adding toppings.
5. Leftover storage: Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
6. Serving suggestion: Pair your keto meat lovers pizza with a simple side salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar for a complete, balanced meal.
7. Crust alternatives: If almond flour doesn’t suit your dietary needs, consider using cauliflower or coconut flour as alternative low-carb crust options.
8. Sauce options: Experiment with different low-carb sauces like alfredo or pesto for a unique twist on the classic pizza flavor.
This keto meat lovers pizza is the perfect solution for those following a low-carb lifestyle who still crave the comfort and satisfaction of a traditional pizza. With its crispy almond flour crust, generous portions of various meats, and gooey cheese topping, this recipe offers all the flavors and textures you love about pizza without the carb overload.
Whether you’re planning a casual dinner at home, looking for a hearty lunch option, or searching for the perfect dish to serve at your next keto-friendly gathering, this pizza is sure to impress. The combination of high-quality proteins and fats will keep you feeling full and satisfied, making it an excellent choice for those aiming to maintain ketosis.
Remember, while this recipe is designed to be keto-friendly, it’s still important to be mindful of portion sizes and to incorporate it into your overall daily macronutrient goals. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, you may find that one or two slices are plenty to curb your pizza cravings.
So, fire up your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a slice (or two) of this delicious keto meat lovers pizza. Your taste buds – and your waistline – will thank you!