Craving pizza but sticking to keto? This Crockpot Pizza Casserole is your new best friend. Comforting, cheesy, and packed with all your favorite pizza flavors, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal that’ll make your weeknights a breeze.

Why This Recipe Works

Effortless Cooking: Let your slow cooker do the work—no babysitting required. Just layer, set, and walk away.
All the Pizza Feels: Pepperoni, melty cheese, and savory sauce deliver that classic pizza taste without the carbs.
Meal Prep Hero: Makes a big batch, so you’ve got leftovers for days (if it lasts that long).
Customizable: Swap toppings to match your cravings—it’s like building your dream pizza, minus the dough.
Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters won’t miss the crust when they’re digging into this cheesy goodness.

Ingredients

1 lb ground Italian sausage (or ground beef)
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (24 oz) jar sugar-free marinara sauce
1 (4 oz) can sliced black olives, drained
1 (3.5 oz) package pepperoni slices, divided
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)

Equipment Needed

6-quart slow cooker (or larger)
Skillet
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups/spoons
Knife and cutting board

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Aromatics

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground sausage (or beef). Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until no pink remains, about 5–7 minutes. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring for another 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Drain excess grease if needed. Pro Tip: For extra flavor, use a mix of sausage and beef!

Step 2: Layer the Base in the Crockpot

Spread half the meat mixture evenly in the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour half the marinara sauce over the meat, followed by half the olives, half the pepperoni, and half of both cheeses. Sprinkle with half the oregano and basil. Repeat the layers once more, ending with cheese on top. Visual Cue: It should look like a saucy, cheesy lasagna before cooking.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Melty Perfection

Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or HIGH for 1.5–2 hours. The casserole is done when the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden at the edges. Don’t peek too often—slow cookers lose heat, and patience pays off here.

Step 4: Let It Rest Before Serving

Turn off the crockpot and let the casserole sit for 10 minutes. This helps the layers set, making it easier to scoop. Timing Note: If you skip this, you’ll have more of a “pizza dip” (still delicious, but messier).

Step 5: Garnish and Dig In

Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or fresh basil if desired. Serve with a side of crispy salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal. Leftovers? They reheat like a dream—just cover and microwave for 1–2 minutes.

Tips and Tricks

Grease Management: If using high-fat meat like sausage, draining excess grease after browning prevents a greasy casserole. Blotting pepperoni with a paper towel can also help.
Cheese Choices: Pre-shredded cheese works, but freshly grated melts smoother. For extra gooeyness, add a handful of cream cheese cubes between layers.
Crispy Pepperoni Hack: For a crispy top, transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish after cooking and broil for 2–3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning!
Low-Carb Sauce Check: Some marinara sauces sneak in sugar. Scan labels for brands with <4g net carbs per serving (or make your own with canned tomatoes and Italian seasoning).
Veggie Boost: Stir in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients. Just squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a watery result.

Recipe Variations

Meat Lover’s Edition: Add cooked bacon, crumbled sausage, and diced ham for a carnivore’s delight.
Veggie Delight: Skip the meat and load up with zucchini, eggplant, and roasted red peppers.
White Pizza Twist: Swap marinara for Alfredo sauce, use chicken instead of sausage, and add ricotta dollops.
Spicy Kick: Mix in jalapeños, use hot Italian sausage, and top with extra red pepper flakes.
Breakfast Pizza: Layer scrambled eggs and top with cheddar—perfect for brunch!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! Assemble the layers in the crockpot insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, pop it into the slow cooker and add 30 extra minutes to the cook time since it’ll start cold.

Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes, but freeze before cooking. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then cook as directed. Note: The texture of thawed cheese can be slightly grainier, but still tasty.

Can I use cauliflower crust?
Sure! Add a thin layer of pre-baked cauliflower crust at the bottom for a “crust-like” base. Just know it’ll soften in the slow cooker—for crunch, broil before serving.

Summary

This Keto Crockpot Pizza Casserole is the ultimate low-carb comfort food—easy, customizable, and packed with pizza flavor. Perfect for busy nights or feeding a crowd, it’s a guilt-free way to satisfy those cheesy cravings.