Few dishes can match the cozy, heartwarming satisfaction of a baked casserole, and this low-carb sausage and pepperoni cheese casserole proves you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for healthier eating. With its bubbling layers of savory Italian sausage, smoky pepperoni, sweet bell peppers, and gooey melted cheese, it delivers everything you love about a traditional baked dish — minus the heavy carbs.
This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even hosting casual gatherings. It’s rich enough to feel indulgent, yet balanced enough to keep you on track with your eating goals. The best part? It’s customizable to your taste — switch up the seasonings, add a little heat, or throw in your favorite low-carb veggies for extra nutrition.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Italian sausage (sliced) – 1 lb
- Pepperoni (sliced) – 1 cup
- Bell peppers (red & green, sliced) – 2 cups
- Shredded mozzarella cheese – 2 cups
- Grated Parmesan cheese – ½ cup
Seasonings and Add-ins
- Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
- Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon
- Salt & black pepper – to taste
- Olive oil – as needed, for greasing
Customization Tip: Swap Italian seasoning for oregano and thyme, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease two individual-sized foil pans with olive oil. These smaller pans are great for portion control and for making one casserole now and saving the other for later.
Cook the Meats and Vegetables
Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet — without cleaning it — sauté the sliced bell peppers for about 5 minutes, just until they begin to soften. This helps bring out their natural sweetness while keeping a bit of crunch.
Combine and Layer
In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned sausage, sautéed bell peppers, sliced pepperoni, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss until everything is evenly coated with the seasonings.
Divide the mixture evenly between the two greased foil pans. Top each pan with shredded mozzarella cheese, then sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the mozzarella. This double-cheese topping ensures a gooey interior with a golden, slightly crispy crust.
Bake to Perfection
Place both pans on a baking sheet to make transferring in and out of the oven easier. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and lightly golden brown on top.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let the casseroles cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or sliced tomatoes drizzled with olive oil and sea salt for a balanced, low-carb meal.
Tips for the Best Low-Carb Casserole
- Use high-quality sausage and pepperoni – Opt for brands without added sugars or fillers to keep the carbs low and flavors pure.
- Don’t overcook the peppers – Slightly crisp peppers give the casserole a fresh bite and prevent it from becoming too soft.
- Make it spicier – Add crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or spicy Italian sausage for a kick.
- Add more protein – Crumbled bacon or shredded rotisserie chicken can make this dish even more filling.
- Make ahead – Assemble the casserole a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when you’re ready.
- Keto-friendly crunch – Sprinkle crushed pork rinds over the top before baking for a crispy, breadcrumb-like texture.
FAQs
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Can I make this in one large pan instead of two small ones?
Absolutely. Use a standard 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for the same amount of time, checking for melted and golden cheese on top.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes. It’s naturally low in carbs and high in fat and protein, making it perfect for a keto lifestyle.
Can I substitute the meats?
Definitely. Try ground beef, turkey sausage, or even shredded chicken in place of Italian sausage and pepperoni.
What vegetables work well in this casserole?
Zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, and broccoli all make excellent low-carb additions. Just make sure to sauté or steam them beforehand to avoid excess moisture.