| Detail | Value |
| Servings | 4 slices |
| Total Time | 40 Minutes (15 min Prep / 25 min Cook) |
| Difficulty | Medium |
| Net Carbs per Serving | 0g Net Carbs |
| Macros (per serving) | Est. 35g Protein / 0g Carbs / 25g Fat |
Intro Paragraph
Do you miss pizza, but follow a strict zero-carb diet or a Carnivore eating plan? Giving up bread and crusts might feel like giving up on a classic comfort food forever. We know that feeling of intense craving when your friends order a pie! Fortunately, we have the perfect zero-carb solution that delivers all the savory satisfaction you need while keeping your carb count exactly at zero.
This recipe, affectionately known as a “Meatza,” uses a perfectly seasoned, protein-packed ground meat crust instead of flour-based dough. It’s not just a substitution—it’s an incredibly delicious, high-protein meal that’s naturally gluten-free and completely free of vegetable oils and sugars. It’s the ultimate Keto-friendly recipe for when the craving hits hard.
Get ready to revolutionize your meal plan. This zero-carb pizza is easy, filling, and the absolute best way to enjoy a pizza night while staying 100% committed to your low-carb lifestyle.
Look at the Recipe
- Sensory Appeal: A robust, savory crust that holds up perfectly, topped with a thick layer of melted, bubbling mozzarella and salty, smoky pepperoni.
- Flavor Highlight: The rich, umami flavor of the beef crust provides a satisfying foundation, enhanced by the fatty, savory punch of the zero-carb toppings.
- Key Keto Benefit: It contains 0g net carbs and is extremely high in bioavailable protein and healthy fats, making it a perfect fat-loss meal that keeps you satiated for hours.
Ingredients Needed
For the Zero-Carb Crust
- 1.5 lbs Lean Ground Beef (85/15 is ideal for flavor, but 93/7 also works)
- 1 Large Egg
- 1 tsp Salt
- ½ tsp Black Pepper
- ½ tsp Garlic Powder (Optional: Omit for strictest Carnivore)
For the Zero-Carb Toppings
- ½ cup Low-Sugar/Zero-Carb Pizza Sauce (Read labels for 0g sugar/carb, or use a thin layer of cream cheese for Carnivore)
- 1 cup Shredded Full-Fat Mozzarella Cheese (Whole Milk preferred)
- 10-12 slices Uncured Turkey Pepperoni or Standard Pepperoni (Check for no added sugar/dextrose)
- 1 tbsp Dried Oregano (Optional: Omit for strictest Carnivore)
How to Make Our Zero-Carb Pizza
- Prep the Crust: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Mix thoroughly using your hands until just combined—do not overmix.
- Shape the Dough: Press the meat mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet into a 10×12-inch rectangular crust shape, about $\frac{1}{2}$ inch thick. Create a slight lip around the edge to form a crust barrier.
- Pre-Bake: Bake the crust for 15 minutes. This allows the crust to set and the fat to render.
- Drain the Fat: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Gently blot or carefully pour off any excess rendered fat from the baking sheet.
- Load the Toppings: Spread a thin layer of your zero-carb sauce or cream cheese over the pre-baked crust. Top evenly with the shredded mozzarella, followed by the pepperoni slices and oregano (if using).
- Final Bake: Return the pizza to the oven and bake for another 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly, and the pepperoni edges are crispy.
- Rest and Slice: Let the pizza rest for 5 minutes before slicing into 4 generous squares.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
This “meatza” holds up surprisingly well and is fantastic for meal prep.
- Storing: Allow any leftovers to cool completely. Store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat slices in an air fryer or a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. This is crucial for crisping up the meat crust again. Microwaving may result in a rubbery texture.
- Freezing: You can freeze individual cooked slices wrapped tightly in foil for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as instructed above.
- Serving Pairings: Since the pizza is already a complete meal (protein and fat), serve it alongside a simple zero-carb beverage like sparkling water or a cup of rich, fatty bone broth for maximum nourishment.
Tips & FAQs
Q: Is ground beef the only meat I can use for the crust?
A: You can swap the ground beef for ground pork or a mixture of ground beef and pork. Some people also enjoy a crust made from ground chicken, but it tends to be drier. Using a fattier cut (85/15 or 80/20) will always yield a juicier, more flavorful zero-carb crust.
Q: How can I make this truly Carnivore-friendly?
A: To make this pizza fit the strict Carnivore diet, omit the garlic powder, oregano, and all vegetables from the toppings (including any tomato or onion in the sauce). Use only the meat crust, cheese, and pepperoni. You can use a thin layer of softened cream cheese or ricotta as a “sauce” base if desired.
Q: What other zero-carb toppings are available?
A: Focus on quality protein and fat: bacon crumbles, thinly sliced ham, cooked sausage, or extra mozzarella. Always check the ingredients list on packaged meats to ensure no hidden sugars (dextrose) or nitrates are present.
Q: How do I prevent my meat crust from shrinking?
A: Pressing the meat firmly and ensuring you create a small edge/lip helps maintain its shape. The most important step is the pre-bake, which sets the proteins before you add the heavy toppings.
