Pizza might be the ultimate comfort food, but for those strictly following a carnivore diet, traditional pizza is off the menu due to its bread-based crust and vegetable toppings. Let me introduce you to Carnivore Pizza, a creative and meaty twist on the classic favorite.
It’s a meal that satisfies the pizza cravings while still following the animal-based eating principles of the carnivore diet. Here’s how you can enjoy pizza on the carnivore diet, including what substitutions to make and how to still enjoy this beloved dish.
If you are unfamiliar with the carnivore diet and want to learn more, be sure to check out Carnivore Diet for Beginners.
Carnivore Pizza
Carnivore Pizza flips the traditional pizza on its head, focusing on animal-based ingredients. The crust is primarily made from ground turkey or ground chicken, giving it a sturdy yet flavorful base without any grains or even keto flours.
It might surprise you to know that an animal based crust with no flours of any kind can rival a traditional pizza crust. Not only does it hold it’s shape, but it can be made to be crunchy or soft, just like a regular pizza crust.
When it comes to toppings, the sky is the limit! Well, as long as it is animal-based, that is.
Tools Needed
Following are the tools need to make this carnivore pizza recipe.
- Parchment Paper
- Baking Sheet
- Mixing Bowl
- Mixing Spatula
- Pizza Cutter
- Mixer
- Measuring Cups and spoons
How to Make Carnivore Pizza
You’ll need just under an hour to make this delicious carnivore pizza!
Crust
Preheat oven to 375 degrees and line a baking sheet or pizza stone with parchment paper. Add all ingredients for the crust into a medium bowl. Using a hand beater, mix ingredients (only 2 tablespoons of butter) until well combined.
Put the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and flatten it into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.
Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top just begins to brown slightly. While baking the crust, brown the ground sausage topping if using.
Remove the crust from the oven and paint the remaining tablespoon (and optional seasoning) onto the crust.
Bake for 5-10 more minutes.
Assembly
Add pizza sauce ingredients to a saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently until well combined.
Add a layer of sauce to the baked crust. Then you can begin layering your toppings in any order you like.
Add Mozzarella cheese, followed by cooked ground sausage and finally pepperoni.
Bake for an additional 7-10 minutes until cheese is melted.
Carnivore Pizza Substitutions
If you’re looking to mix things up or don’t have certain ingredients on hand, there are plenty of substitutions you can make.
- Crust: Swap ground turkey with any other ground meat like chicken or beef for a different flavor profile. Ground turkey and chicken are the best, however.
- Pork Rinds: If you don’t have pork rinds, additional Parmesan or another hard, grated cheese can help bind the crust.
- Cream Cheese: For a different sauce texture, try swapping in ricotta or cottage cheese.
Can You Eat Pizza on the Carnivore Diet?
Yes, with some creative adjustments, you can eat pizza on a carnivore diet! Traditional pizza, with its grain-based crust and often vegetable-heavy toppings, doesn’t fit within the carnivore diet. However, by reconstructing the pizza with entirely animal-based ingredients, you can enjoy a version of your favorite pizza.
It’s all about getting the right mix of meaty crust and toppings to mimic the experience of a traditional pizza while keeping it carnivore-friendly.
Optional Carnivore Toppings
While the base of the carnivore pizza is quite filling and flavorful, adding toppings can enhance the experience. Here are a few of my favorites.
- Cheese: A sprinkle of mozzarella or slices of other cheeses can add a gooey, melty element.
- Meats: Consider varying the meats with options like bacon, ham, or even thinly sliced steak for a hearty topping.
- Seasonings: While not strictly carnivore, adding a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or other herbs can enhance the flavor if your dietary approach allows.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Patience with the Crust: Ensure the meat crust is fully cooked before adding toppings. A solid base is key to a good carnivore pizza.
- High Heat: A hot oven helps ensure a crispy edge and well-melted cheese.
- Resting Time: Allow the pizza to rest for a few minutes after baking for easier slicing.
Whether you’re a long-time carnivore dieter or just looking to reduce your carb intake, this meaty, cheesy, satisfying alternative is worth a try on your next pizza night!
Other Carnivore Recipes You Might Like
Carnivore Pizza
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 pound ground turkey or ground chicken
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup pork rinds
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons butter melted and divided
- optional 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Pizza Sauce
- 1/4 cup bone broth
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 4 ounce cream cheese
Optional Toppings
- 1 1/4 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- Pepperoni
Instructions
Crust
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees and line a baking sheet or pizza stone with parchment paper.
- Add all ingredients for the crust (only 2 tablespoons of butter) into a medium bowl. Using a hand beater, mix ingredients until well combined.
- Put the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and flatten into a circle about 1/4 inch thick. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top just begins to brown slightly.
- While baking the crust, brown the ground sausage topping if using.
- Remove the crust from the oven and paint the remaining tablespoon of butter (and optional seasoning) onto the crust. Bake for 5-10 more minutes.
Assembly
- Add pizza sauce ingredients to a saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently until well combined.
- Add a layer of sauce to the baked crust. Then you can begin layering your toppings in any order you like.
- Add Mozzarella cheese, followed by cooked ground sausage and finally pepperoni.
- Bake for an additional 7-10 minutes until cheese is melted.
Nutrition
Trina Krug is a Holistic Nutritionist, Integrative Health Coach and host of the Carbless Conversations Podcast. With a Master’s Degree in Complementary and Alternative Medicine, her single mission in life is to facilitate self-healing in herself and those around her through awareness, lifestyle shifts and low-carb eating. As a current Doctor of Science student, she continues her studies in functional nutrition.