Description

If you’re craving all the cheesy, saucy goodness of pizza without the heavy crust, this Roasted Cauliflower Pizza Casserole is your perfect match! It’s a low-carb, veggie-packed dish that combines roasted cauliflower with classic pizza toppings like marinara, melted cheese, and savory ground meat. It’s a feel-good comfort food recipe the whole family will love—perfect for weeknights or meal prep.

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Ingredients

For the Base:
1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp Italian seasoning

For the Meat & Sauce Layer:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups marinara sauce (no added sugar)
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Topping:
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
12–15 slices turkey pepperoni (optional)
½ cup sliced black olives (optional)
¼ cup chopped bell peppers or mushrooms (optional)
1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.
Remove from oven and set aside. Reduce oven temp to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
5. While the cauliflower roasts, heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat.
6. Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft.
7. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
8. Add ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes.
9. Stir in marinara sauce and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3–5 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
10. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
11. Layer the roasted cauliflower evenly on the bottom.
12. Spoon the meat sauce over the cauliflower and spread it out evenly.
13. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top.
14. Add your desired toppings: turkey pepperoni, olives, mushrooms, bell peppers.
15. Finish with a sprinkle of oregano or Italian seasoning.

Step 4: Bake & Serve
16. Bake in the preheated 375°F oven for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
17. If desired, broil for 2–3 minutes to lightly brown the top.
18. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
19. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

Notes

Roast Cauliflower Thoroughly – It adds flavor and prevents a watery casserole.
Use a Thick Marinara – A thicker sauce keeps everything cohesive and hearty.
Let it Rest – Let the casserole sit before slicing to help it set.
Add More Toppings – Customize like a pizza—green onions, jalapeños, spinach, or even pineapple.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: American