This Pizza Protein Bowl is a fun twist on your favorite pizza! It’s loaded with protein-rich ingredients like chicken, cheese, and your favorite veggies, all in one bowl!
Who knew pizza could be so healthy and tasty at the same time? I love making this when I’m craving pizza without all the carbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower Rice: This is a great low-carb option! If you’re not a fan or can’t find it, brown rice or quinoa work well too. They add fiber and make the bowl more filling.
Ground Chicken or Turkey: I usually opt for ground turkey for its lean protein. Beef or a plant-based meat substitute can be used for variety, too. Just adjust cooking times if needed.
Pepperoni: For a healthier choice, try turkey pepperoni or omit it altogether. You can also add cooked sausage or diced ham for a different flavor.
Mushrooms and Zucchini: Feel free to swap in other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or even artichokes! It’s a great way to use up what you have in your fridge.
Pizza Sauce: Store-bought sauces are fine, but homemade is even better! If you want a lighter option, try using crushed tomatoes with seasonings instead.
How Do I Melt the Cheese Perfectly?
Melting cheese properly is key to achieving that pizza experience in your bowl. Here’s how I make sure it melts perfectly:
- After assembling your ingredients, I suggest broiling the bowl for about 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning!
- If using the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals until the cheese is just melted, being careful not to overdo it.
- Let the bowl sit for a minute before serving, as the cheese will continue to soften slightly.
Pizza Protein Bowl
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked cauliflower rice (or brown rice/quinoa)
- 150g ground chicken or turkey
- 6-8 slices pepperoni
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or fresh mozzarella slices)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: drizzle of sriracha or hot sauce for spice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This colorful and satisfying Pizza Protein Bowl takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you’re craving something delicious and healthy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Meat:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add in the ground chicken or turkey, sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture until it’s fully browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, set it aside while you prepare the veggies.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced mushrooms and zucchini. Sauté them until they’re nicely softened, which should take around 4-5 minutes. Once cooked, set them aside with the meat.
3. Assemble the Bowl:
Grab a bowl and start by adding the cooked cauliflower rice at the bottom as the base. This will keep everything hearty while keeping the carbs down!
4. Layer On The Good Stuff:
Now, it’s time to artfully arrange! Place your cooked ground meat, sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, chopped fresh spinach, and pepperoni slices on top of the cauliflower rice, making sure to separate each item for a colorful presentation.
5. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Next, spoon pizza sauce over your layers of meat and veggies. Finally, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top. If you used fresh mozzarella, lay the slices in a single layer.
6. Melt That Cheese:
Now it’s time to melt the cheese! Place the bowl under a broiler for about 1-2 minutes, or pop it in the microwave for a minute. Watch closely to ensure that the cheese melts without burning!
7. Finish and Garnish:
If you like a little heat, drizzle with sriracha or hot sauce. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh basil on top to brighten things up!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Pizza Protein Bowl is ready! Serve it warm and enjoy this deliciously healthy twist on pizza.
This recipe perfectly captures all the yummy flavors of pizza with a nutritious, protein-rich twist. Enjoy!
Can I Use Rice Instead of Cauliflower Rice?
Absolutely! If you prefer rice, brown rice or quinoa are both excellent alternatives that will add some more fiber and keep the dish filling. Just make sure to cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the bowl.
Can I Prep This Meal Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep components in advance! Cook the meat and veggies, then store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, just reheat and assemble the bowl with the fresh toppings.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Keep in mind that the cauliflower rice may get a bit softer when reheating.
Can I Make This Vegetarian?
Definitely! To make it vegetarian, simply substitute the ground meat with a plant-based meat alternative, like lentils, chickpeas, or your favorite vegetarian protein. You can still enjoy all the delicious flavors with those ingredients!
