If you’re craving all the delicious flavors of pizza without the carb overload, this Crustless Pizza with Ground Turkey, Cheddar, and Pepperoni Recipe is going to be your new go-to meal. It’s packed with savory ground turkey, ooey-gooey melted cheddar and mozzarella, and flavorful pepperoni, all baked together without the crust. This dish brings together the best parts of pizza in a lighter, protein-rich, and incredibly satisfying way that’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a comforting, cheesy feast that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, everyday ingredients come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Each component, from the lean ground turkey to the sharp cheddar and hearty pepperoni, plays a vital role in delivering that authentic pizza experience without the crust.
- Lean ground turkey (1/2 pound): A protein-packed base that keeps the dish light but satisfying.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic and turkey to perfection.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Infuses the meat with a fresh, aromatic flavor.
- Italian seasonings (1 tablespoon): A fragrant mix that brings classic pizza herb notes.
- Cheddar cheese (1 cup, grated): Offers a sharp, creamy punch that melts beautifully into the turkey.
- Keto pizza sauce (1/2 cup): Tart and tangy with herbs, it simulates the familiar pizza sauce base.
- Mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Provides that signature melty, stringy texture on top.
- Mushrooms (4 small, chopped): Earthy and meaty, adding great texture and taste.
- Olives (1/4 cup, sliced): Brings a salty, briny pop that punches up the flavors.
- Pepperoni (8 slices): Classic pizza topping that adds spice and crispness when baked.
How to Make Crustless Pizza with Ground Turkey, Cheddar, and Pepperoni Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 200°C (400°F). Preheating ensures that when your pizza is ready to bake, the heat will be perfect for melting cheese and crisping toppings quickly, locking in all those delicious flavors.
Step 2: Cook the Turkey
Warm the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the minced garlic, allowing it to release its wonderful aroma for about a minute. Then, add the ground turkey and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until the turkey turns no longer pink, which should take around 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the Italian seasonings to infuse the meat with those classic pizza herbs, making every bite flavorful.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Assemble
Remove the skillet from the heat and gently fold in the grated cheddar cheese, blending it evenly with the meat. Next, spread the keto pizza sauce over the meat and cheese layer. Then, scatter the chopped mushrooms, sliced olives, and pepperoni slices on top. Finally, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese to create that golden, bubbly crown.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the whole skillet into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes. Watch as the cheese melts into a gooey, golden masterpiece and the pepperoni edges crisp up just right. This step transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible crustless pizza sensation.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Slice the crustless pizza into four hearty portions and serve immediately while the cheese is molten and the flavors are bursting. It’s comfort food with none of the crust hassle!
How to Serve Crustless Pizza with Ground Turkey, Cheddar, and Pepperoni Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped basil or oregano sprinkled over the hot pizza add a vibrant touch and deepen the flavor. A drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can bring an exciting kick if you love a little heat.
Side Dishes
Pair this crustless pizza with a crisp mixed green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted garlic green beans or a simple Caesar salad also complement the hearty, cheesy main dish perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the crustless pizza in individual ramekins for personal portions. You can also turn it into a sharing platter, adding extra olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even some caramelized onions on the side so everyone can customize bites to their liking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them into an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making quick lunches or dinners a breeze.
Freezing
This crustless pizza freezes wonderfully. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 2 months. It’s an easy way to have a homemade, tasty meal waiting on a busy day.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the pizza portions in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture from becoming soggy — the oven keeps that amazing baked quality intact.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground beef works just as well and gives a slightly richer flavor if you prefer. The recipe is flexible for either protein.
Is this recipe suitable for low-carb or keto diets?
Yes, this Crustless Pizza with Ground Turkey, Cheddar, and Pepperoni Recipe is perfect for low-carb or keto lifestyles thanks to the lack of pizza crust and the use of keto-friendly pizza sauce.
Can I add other toppings?
Of course! Feel free to customize with bell peppers, onions, or even spinach. Just keep in mind the moisture content so the dish doesn’t get watery.
What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar and mozzarella are classic because cheddar adds flavor and creaminess, while mozzarella melts beautifully and browns evenly. You can experiment with provolone or parmesan for extra flair.
How can I make the pepperoni crispier?
To get that crispy pepperoni edge, lay the slices on top so they bake exposed to the oven heat, and don’t cover them too much with cheese or sauce. Baking time is key—just enough to brown them nicely.
Final Thoughts
This Crustless Pizza with Ground Turkey, Cheddar, and Pepperoni Recipe is a savory, low-carb delight that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying snack, it’s sure to become a favorite you’ll turn to again and again. Give it a try and share the joy of pizza without the crust hassle—you won’t regret it!
Print
Crustless Pizza with Ground Turkey, Cheddar, and Pepperoni Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Crustless Pizza recipe offers a low-carb, delicious alternative to traditional pizza by using a savory ground turkey base topped with cheeses, vegetables, and pepperoni, baked to perfection in a skillet for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1/2 pound lean ground turkey (or ground beef)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasonings
Cheese
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
Other Toppings
- 1/2 cup keto pizza sauce
- 4 small mushrooms, chopped
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced
- 8 slices pepperoni
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) so it’s ready for finishing the pizza once assembled.
- Cook the Turkey: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add ground turkey or beef and break it apart with a spatula, cooking for 4–5 minutes until it is no longer pink. Stir in Italian seasonings to evenly distribute the flavor.
- Add Cheese and Assemble: Remove the skillet from heat and gently stir in the grated cheddar cheese until it is well combined with the cooked meat. Spread the keto pizza sauce evenly over this mixture. Then layer the chopped mushrooms, sliced olives, and pepperoni slices on top. Finally, sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over all the toppings.
- Bake: Place the skillet into the preheated oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on the top, creating a delicious crustless pizza.
- Serve: Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Slice the crustless pizza into four portions and serve immediately while hot for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef or even ground chicken for the turkey based on preference.
- Feel free to add other low-carb toppings such as bell peppers or onions.
- Use keto-friendly pizza sauce to keep the recipe low in carbs.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven or microwave.
