Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
• 1 small green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small yellow bell pepper, sliced
• ½ small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup no-sugar-added pizza sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish

Optional Pizza Toppings

• Sliced mushrooms
• Black olives
• Pepperoni
• Cooked Italian sausage
• Cooked chicken
• Jalapeños
• Spinach
• Fresh basil

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:

• Brown the ground beef.
• Drain excess fat if necessary.
• Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

3. Add the Vegetables

Add:

• Bell peppers
• Onion

Cook for about 4–5 minutes, until slightly softened but still crisp.

4. Season

Mix in:

• Pizza sauce
• Italian seasoning
• Oregano
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Pepper
• Red pepper flakes (if using)

Cook for another 2–3 minutes.

5. Assemble

Divide the mixture between four oven-safe baking dishes or ramekins.

Top evenly with:

• Mozzarella
• Parmesan

6. Bake

Bake for 15–18 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Broil for 1–2 minutes for a golden-brown top, if desired.

7. Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and enjoy hot.

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Tips

• Use 93% lean ground beef for less grease.
• Choose a no-sugar-added pizza sauce to keep carbs low.
• Don’t overcook the peppers—they taste best with a little crunch.
• Add extra protein like pepperoni or sausage if desired.

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Storage

Refrigerator: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Freezer: Up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Microwave: 1–2 minutes
• Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes
• Air Fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 5–6 minutes

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Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 390
• Protein: 31 g
• Fat: 27 g
• Carbohydrates: 7–9 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Net Carbs: 5–7 g

Nutrition varies depending on the pizza sauce, cheese, and optional toppings used.

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Nut Information

Naturally free from:

• Peanuts
• Tree nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans, cashews, pistachios, hazelnuts, macadamias, Brazil nuts)

Potential Nut Concerns

• Check the labels on:
  • Pizza sauce
  • Shredded cheese
  • Seasonings
  • Processed meats (pepperoni or sausage)

Some brands may be manufactured in facilities that also process nuts.

To Keep It Nut-Free

• Use certified nut-free ingredients if cooking for someone with a severe allergy.
• Prevent cross-contamination by using clean utensils and cookware.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this keto?
Yes. Use a no-sugar-added pizza sauce and avoid high-carb vegetables. The recipe is suitable for many keto eating plans.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Absolutely. Both are excellent lean alternatives to beef.

Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Assemble the bowls up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, olives, and broccoli are great low-carb additions.

Can I use different cheeses?
Yes. Provolone, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a pizza cheese blend all work well.

Is this really zero carbs?
No. While it’s very low in carbs, ingredients like bell peppers, onions, pizza sauce, and cheese contribute a small amount of carbohydrates. Calling it “zero carb” would be inaccurate.