Low-Carb Italian Sausage & Pepperoni Casserole
Craving cheesy, meaty comfort food without the carb overload? This Low-Carb Italian Sausage and Pepperoni Casserole takes all the bold, savory flavors of your favorite pizza and transforms them into a wholesome, keto-friendly dinner you’ll want to make on repeat.
Rooted in the hearty casseroles of generations past, this updated version is lighter on carbs but still rich in taste and satisfaction. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or simply seeking a filling, grain-free meal, this dish delivers everything you love — no pasta or bread required.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low-Carb Comfort Food: All the cheesy, saucy goodness of Italian casserole with none of the guilt.
- Quick & Easy: Prepped and baked in under 30 minutes for stress-free weeknight meals.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Assemble ahead of time and pop in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
- Customizable: Add heat, swap seasonings, or load up with more veggies — your kitchen, your rules.
Ingredients (and What Each One Brings to the Table)
- 1 lb sliced Italian sausage: Provides hearty, seasoned meatiness as the base protein. Mild or spicy — it’s your call.
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni: Adds richness, smokiness, and a hint of spice. It crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- 2 cups sliced red and green bell peppers: A colorful medley that brings sweetness, crunch, and nutrition.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The essential melty layer that brings it all together. Creamy and stretchy!
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth and helps create a golden crust on top.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A balanced blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme for classic Italian flavor.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Infuses the dish with warm, garlicky undertones without overwhelming it.
- Salt & black pepper to taste: Simple seasonings to enhance and balance all the savory components.
- Olive oil (as needed): Used for greasing the pans and helping ingredients sauté without sticking.
Customization Tip: Swap Italian seasoning for a blend of oregano and thyme, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat!
How to Make Low-Carb Sausage & Pepperoni Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease two individual-sized foil pans or one medium baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Ingredients
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the sliced Italian sausage until fully cooked and slightly crisped. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté the sliced bell peppers for about 5 minutes until slightly softened but still vibrant.
Step 3: Mix and Assemble
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, sautéed peppers, sliced pepperoni, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Divide the mixture evenly between your prepared pans.
- Top generously with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the pans on a baking sheet and transfer to the oven. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5–10 minutes. This helps everything set and makes serving easier. Plate up and enjoy the gooey, cheesy, meaty goodness!
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake fresh when ready.
- Boost the Crunch: Sprinkle crushed pork rinds or chopped bacon on top before baking for a crispy twist.
- Add More Veggies: Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach make great low-carb additions without changing the flavor profile too much.
- Double the Batch: This recipe is easily scalable. Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd!
What to Serve with This Low-Carb Casserole
Balance the richness with something light and fresh. Here are a few delicious pairing ideas:
- Green Salad: Toss mixed greens with a citrus vinaigrette or balsamic glaze to brighten up the plate.
- Roasted Vegetables: Cauliflower, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil and garlic pair beautifully.
- Sliced Tomatoes with Sea Salt & Olive Oil: A simple side that brings acidity and freshness.
- Cauliflower Rice or Zoodles: Low-carb alternatives to soak up any leftover juices or cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this casserole keto-friendly?
Yes! With no pasta, bread, or high-carb veggies, it’s perfect for keto and low-carb lifestyles.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can swap the cheeses for dairy-free alternatives, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
How should I store leftovers?
Cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Assemble, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze. Bake from frozen by adding 10–15 minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion: Flavor-Packed Comfort Without the Carbs
This Low-Carb Italian Sausage and Pepperoni Casserole proves you don’t need pasta or bread to enjoy soul-satisfying comfort food. It’s loaded with protein, layered with gooey cheese, packed with bold Italian flavors, and completely gluten-free.
Perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or whenever the craving for cheesy goodness strikes, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re living low-carb or just looking for a new family favorite, this casserole deserves a permanent spot on your meal plan.
Try it today and rediscover comfort food — reimagined.