Anti-Inflammatory Deep-Dish Meat Lovers Pizza

Anti-Inflammatory Deep-Dish Meat Lovers Pizza

A Hearty, Low-Carb Pizza Packed With Flavor

This Anti-Inflammatory Deep-Dish Meat Lovers Pizza puts a wholesome twist on classic comfort food. It features a sturdy almond flour crust layered with seasoned ground beef, turkey sausage, turkey pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, tomato sauce, and plenty of melted mozzarella and Parmesan.

A flavorful combination of garlic, turmeric, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, and fresh parsley gives every bite a savory, aromatic finish. With approximately 465 calories and 8 grams of net carbohydrates per slice, this pizza is a satisfying option for a family dinner, weekend meal, meal prep, or casual gathering.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Serving Size: 1 slice
Diet: Gluten-Free, Low-Carb

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this pizza because it delivers all the comforting flavors of a classic meat lovers pizza while using a homemade almond flour crust and a generous selection of vegetables and herbs. The crust is hearty enough to hold the toppings without becoming overly heavy, while the combination of beef, turkey sausage, pepperoni, vegetables, and cheese makes every slice incredibly satisfying.

It is also versatile enough for different occasions. You can prepare it ahead of time, customize the meats and vegetables, freeze individual slices, and serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

For the Almond Flour Crust

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • ¼ cup ground flaxseed
  • 2 tablespoons psyllium husk powder
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt

For the Meat and Vegetable Filling

  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 250 g lean ground beef
  • 170 g turkey sausage
  • 80 g turkey pepperoni
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • ½ cup diced onion
  • ½ cup diced bell pepper
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1½ cups low-sugar tomato sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

Almond Flour: Creates a sturdy, gluten-free, lower-carbohydrate crust with a slightly nutty flavor.

Ground Flaxseed: Helps provide structure and binding while adding fiber to the crust.

Greek Yogurt: Adds moisture and tenderness to the crust. Unsweetened coconut yogurt can be used as an alternative.

Ground Beef: Lean ground beef provides rich, hearty flavor. Lean ground turkey or ground chicken can be substituted.

Turkey Sausage: Adds savory flavor while keeping the filling lighter than traditional pork sausage.

Turkey Pepperoni: Nitrate-free turkey pepperoni works well for the topping. Beef pepperoni or grilled chicken can also be used.

Mozzarella: Gives the pizza its classic stretchy, creamy, cheesy topping.

Mushrooms: Add an earthy flavor and satisfying texture. Eggplant or artichoke hearts are good alternatives.

Bell Pepper: Adds natural sweetness, freshness, and color.

Tomato Sauce: Choose a low-sugar tomato sauce for a flavorful base without unnecessary added sugar.

How to Make It

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a deep-dish pizza pan.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, ground flaxseed, psyllium husk, baking powder, sea salt, and oregano.
  3. Add the eggs, olive oil, and Greek yogurt. Mix until a cohesive dough forms.
  4. Press the dough evenly into the prepared deep-dish pizza pan.
  5. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven.
  6. While the crust bakes, heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
  7. Add the ground beef and turkey sausage. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
  8. Add the mushrooms, onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for approximately 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
  9. Stir in the tomato sauce, turmeric, smoked paprika, black pepper, basil, and oregano.
  10. Simmer the mixture for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
  11. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella over the partially baked crust.
  12. Spread the meat and vegetable mixture evenly over the cheese.
  13. Arrange the turkey pepperoni over the filling.
  14. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  15. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  16. Let the pizza rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
  17. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

  • Pre-baking the crust helps it stay firm and prevents the finished pizza from becoming soggy.
  • Let the pizza rest before cutting so the layers have time to set and the slices hold together better.
  • Avoid adding excessive tomato sauce because too much moisture can soften the crust.
  • For extra vegetables, add spinach, zucchini, or additional bell peppers to the filling.
  • Fresh herbs added after baking provide a brighter flavor and fresher finish.
  • For evenly cooked toppings, cut the vegetables into small, similar-sized pieces.
  • Drain excess moisture from cooked vegetables if they release a lot of liquid.
  • For a crispier bottom, bake the pizza on a preheated baking surface or use a well-greased deep-dish pan.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this deep-dish pizza with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to create a balanced and satisfying meal.

Fresh Salads

  • Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad
  • Greek Salad
  • Arugula Parmesan Salad
  • Spinach Berry Salad
  • Kale Avocado Salad

Roasted Vegetables

  • Garlic Roasted Broccoli
  • Herb-Roasted Cauliflower
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts
  • Lemon Garlic Asparagus
  • Roasted Zucchini

A bowl of tomato basil soup or a refreshing lemon ginger drink also pairs beautifully with the rich, cheesy pizza.

Make-Ahead Instructions

This pizza can be assembled ahead of time, covered, and refrigerated until you are ready to bake it. If preparing it in advance, keep it chilled until baking and allow a little additional cooking time if needed.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Allow leftover pizza to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

For the best texture, reheat individual slices in the oven or air fryer rather than the microwave.

Freezer

Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or freezer-safe material, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw refrigerated overnight when possible, then reheat until hot and the cheese is melted.

Recipe Variations

Dairy-Free: Replace the mozzarella and Parmesan with suitable dairy-free alternatives.

Cauliflower Crust: A prepared or homemade cauliflower crust can be used for a lighter variation.

Chicken Version: Replace the ground beef and sausage with lean ground chicken and grilled chicken pieces.

Turkey Version: Use lean ground turkey throughout the filling and add turkey pepperoni.

Extra Vegetable: Add spinach, zucchini, olives, or artichoke hearts for additional variety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pizza dairy-free?

Yes. Replace the Greek yogurt with an unsweetened dairy-free yogurt and use dairy-free mozzarella and Parmesan alternatives.

Can I use cauliflower crust?

Yes. A cauliflower crust can be substituted for the almond flour crust. Keep in mind that the texture will be lighter and may require slightly different baking instructions.

Can I prepare the pizza ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the pizza, cover it, and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake.

What other meats can I use?

Lean ground turkey, ground chicken, grilled chicken, or nitrate-free beef pepperoni can be used according to your preference.

Nutrition Information

Per 1 slice

  • Calories: 465 kcal
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Fat: 33 g
  • Total Carbohydrates: 13 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 610 mg

Nutrition information is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Final Thoughts

This Anti-Inflammatory Deep-Dish Meat Lovers Pizza is a delicious way to enjoy the comforting flavors of pizza with a hearty, homemade twist. The almond flour crust, flavorful meat filling, colorful vegetables, aromatic herbs, and layers of melted cheese make it satisfying enough for dinner while still being easy to customize.

Whether served fresh from the oven, prepared ahead for a busy week, or frozen in individual portions, this pizza is a practical recipe worth keeping in your regular rotation.

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