The delightful scent of bubbling cheese and savory spices wafted through my kitchen, instantly whisking me away to a cozy Italian pizzeria. Enter the 53g Protein Crustless Pizza Pie—a masterpiece for those who crave a guilt-free, comforting meal. Packed with high-protein goodness and delivering a hearty punch in every bite, this crustless wonder is not only low-carb but also keto-friendly, making it a perfect fit for anyone looking to keep their diet in check without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is quick to whip up and oh-so-versatile. With an array of topping choices from pepperoni to vibrant veggies, there’s no limit to the delicious combinations you can create. Who’s ready to dig into a slice of this healthier comfort food?
Why Choose a Crustless Pizza Pie?
Healthier alternative: This crustless pizza pie packs 53g of protein while keeping carbs low, perfect for those on a keto diet.
Versatile and customizable: With room for your favorite toppings, you can easily cater to different tastes, whether it’s pepperoni or a medley of veggies.
Quick and easy: Whip this up in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights.
Comforting taste: Enjoy the savory blend of cheese and spices that delivers all the comforts of traditional pizza without the guilt!
Meal prep friendly: Make a big batch for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week. Pair perfectly with a refreshing salad or try it alongside our Pumpkin Pie Stuffed dessert for a complete meal!
Crustless Pizza Pie Ingredients
For the Filling
• Ground Chicken or Turkey – Main protein powerhouse for a healthy meal.
• Eggs – Acts as the binding agent; use fresh eggs for a fluffy result.
• Cottage Cheese – Adds moisture and protein; drain for a firmer pie texture.
• Shredded Mozzarella – Provides rich cheesiness; swap for your favorite cheese for a twist.
• Grated Parmesan – Elevates flavor depth; nutritional yeast can replace it for a vegan option.
For the Sauce and Seasoning
• Pizza Sauce (sugar-free) – Adds moisture and authentic tomato taste; homemade or store-bought works well.
• Italian Seasoning & Garlic Powder – Infuses savory flavors; adjust according to your preference.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings; tweak to suit your taste.
Optional Toppings
• Pepperoni – Classic topping for a traditional pizza vibe.
• Vegetables – Load up with mushrooms, olives, onions, or jalapeños for added nutrition and crunch.
This crustless pizza pie is the perfect answer to satisfying your cravings while staying true to your health goals!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crustless Pizza Pie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare a 9-inch pie dish by greasing it with cooking spray or a light coating of olive oil. This will ensure your crustless pizza pie doesn’t stick and comes out easily once baked.
Step 2: Cook the Protein
In a large skillet over medium heat, add your choice of ground chicken or turkey. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder as it cooks. Brown the meat for about 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently until no longer pink. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and set the skillet aside to cool slightly before mixing it into the egg mixture.
Step 3: Mix the Egg Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs with 1 cup of cottage cheese, ½ cup of grated Parmesan, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese to enrich the filling before incorporating the cooled cooked meat.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients
Pour the combined meat and egg mixture into your prepared pie dish, smoothing it out evenly. Next, spread about ½ cup of sugar-free pizza sauce over the top, ensuring an even layer. Finally, sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce along with any optional toppings, such as pepperoni or vegetables.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are golden and the center is set, bubbling slightly. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-baking, which can make the cheese tough.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the crustless pizza pie from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This resting period will help it firm up, making it easier to slice. Cut into wedges and serve warm, savoring each hearty, cheesy bite!
Storage Tips for Crustless Pizza Pie
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps your crustless pizza pie fresh and ready to enjoy again!
Freezer: If you need longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months. This way, you can savor a slice whenever you crave it.
Reheating: When you’re ready to eat, reheat frozen slices directly from the freezer in an air fryer at 370°F for about 8-10 minutes for a perfectly crispy texture.
Serving: Enjoy warm for best flavor! Adding a fresh salad on the side complements this high-protein dish beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
For busy home cooks, this 53g protein crustless pizza pie is a fantastic meal prep option! You can prepare the filling (ground meat, eggs, cottage cheese, and seasonings) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients, cover tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This keeps the flavor fresh while ensuring a quick assembly come mealtime. If you want to prep even further, you can assemble the entire pie without baking and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your crustless pizza pie, just pop it in the oven as directed, and you’ll have a delicious, satisfying dish with minimal effort!
Crustless Pizza Pie Variations & Substitutions
Customize your crustless pizza pie to create a culinary masterpiece that suits your tastes and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Swap cottage cheese with silken tofu and use a dairy-free cheese blend for the topping.
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Low-Calorie: Opt for turkey bacon or pepperoni slices to reduce fat while keeping that savory flavor intact. Light toppings make this dish guilt-free!
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Veggie-Packed: Add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the filling for added nutrition. This brings a delightful pop of color and texture to your meal.
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Spicy Kick: Spice things up with jalapeños or red pepper flakes mixed into the filling. The heat will give your pizza pie an exciting twist!
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Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to brighten the flavors even further. A fresh herb combination can elevate any dish!
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Buffalo Chicken: For a unique flavor profile, kick up the protein by stirring in shredded buffalo chicken. This adds a satisfying zing to your savory pie.
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Mediterranean Flair: Incorporate feta cheese and olives, and swap the Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean spice mix. The bold flavors transport your tastebuds on a journey.
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Mushroom Madness: Layer sautéed mushrooms on top before baking for an earthy flavor boost. This simple addition enhances both the taste and texture of the pie.
If you’re craving more delicious twists, consider trying out our Homemade Pizza Pockets for a fun finger-food adventure or enjoy a comforting bowl of Toasted Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal for breakfast!
Expert Tips for Crustless Pizza Pie
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Choose Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground chicken or turkey to keep the protein high and calories low while avoiding excess fat.
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Drain Cottage Cheese: Drain the cottage cheese well before mixing to prevent a soggy pie and achieve a firmer texture in your crustless pizza pie.
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Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to try various toppings. Adding colorful veggies not only boosts nutrition but also enhances flavor and texture.
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Perfect Baking: Watch your pie closely while baking; overcooking can lead to tough cheese. Aim for a lovely golden edge without burning.
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Reheat Smartly: For crispy leftovers, reheat the pie in an air fryer at 370°F. This helps to maintain its delightful texture.
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Meal Prep Magic: Make a larger batch for easy meal prep! Slice and store individual portions in the fridge or freezer for quick, high-protein meals.
What to Serve with 53g Protein Crustless Pizza Pie?
Complement your meal experience with delightful sides and drinks that elevate the flavors and textures of this satisfying dish.
- Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad adds a refreshing crunch while balancing the savory richness of the pizza pie.
- Roasted Vegetables: Flavorful roasted veggies bring a caramelized sweetness that pairs beautifully with the hearty pie.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks offer a comforting, familiar taste that everyone loves, even without the crust!
- Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles provide a light and nutritious side, soaking up any extra sauce beautifully.
- Cauliflower Rice: Fluffy cauliflower rice makes an excellent grain substitute, offering a subtle flavor that keeps the meal wholesome and light.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing sparkling water elevates the dining experience, cleansing the palate between bites.
- Tiramisu: Indulge in a slice of classic tiramisu for dessert; its creamy texture and coffee flavor are the perfect sweet finish to this savory meal.
Each of these options not only complements the crustless pizza pie but also adds personality and flair to your dining table!
Crustless Pizza Pie Recipe FAQs
What is the best meat to use for the crustless pizza pie?
Absolutely! For the highest protein content with lower calories, I recommend using lean ground chicken or turkey. These meats not only keep the dish healthier but also noticeably add flavor. You can easily swap them for ground beef if you prefer a richer taste—just be mindful of the fat content!
How should I store leftovers?
Very simply! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps your crustless pizza pie fresh and delicious for easy reheating. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze individual slices—wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze the crustless pizza pie?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the cooled pie and wrap each piece securely in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This two-layer protection keeps the moisture locked in. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the frozen slices in the air fryer at 370°F for about 8-10 minutes for a crispy finish!
What can I do if my crustless pizza pie comes out too watery?
Oh no! If you find the pie is too watery, it’s often due to excess moisture from the cottage cheese or cooking the meat without draining. Next time, be sure to drain the cottage cheese thoroughly and cook the meat until it’s brown and any liquid has evaporated. If you need to salvage it now, let it rest longer to firm up before serving, or you can bake it a bit longer to evaporate excess moisture.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! This crustless pizza pie is not only keto-friendly but also gluten-free. However, if you or anyone you’re serving has allergies, make sure to check the labels on your ingredients, especially with the cheese and pizza sauce. If you want a dairy-free option, simply substitute the cottage cheese with a nut-based alternative and the mozzarella with a vegan cheese.
What toppings can I use on my crustless pizza pie?
The more the merrier! You can customize your crustless pizza pie with your favorite toppings such as pepperoni, sautéed mushrooms, olives, jalapeños, or a variety of colorful veggies. Don’t hesitate to get creative—experimenting with different flavors is half the fun!
Crustless Pizza Pie: A High-Protein Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground chicken or turkey until browned, about 5–7 minutes, seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, cottage cheese, grated Parmesan, and Italian seasoning until smooth. Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella and the cooked meat.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pie dish, spread pizza sauce on top, and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and optional toppings.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes until edges are golden and center is set.
- Let cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
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