Anti-Inflammatory Deep Dish Meat Lovers Pizza
This wholesome deep-dish pizza is packed with protein, healthy fats, and anti-inflammatory ingredients. A cauliflower-almond crust, homemade tomato sauce, lean meats, and plenty of herbs make it a satisfying twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients
For the Crust
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup almond flour
2 large eggs
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce
1 cup tomato sauce (no added sugar)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried basil
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Toppings
½ pound lean ground turkey, cooked and drained
4 ounces nitrate-free turkey pepperoni, sliced
4 ounces cooked chicken sausage, sliced
2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
½ cup sliced mushrooms
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9-inch deep-dish pie pan or cast-iron skillet.
Steam or microwave the cauliflower until tender. Let it cool slightly, then squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel.
In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower, almond flour, eggs, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan, forming a crust up the sides. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the garlic for 30 seconds, then stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Spread the sauce over the baked crust.
Sprinkle half of the mozzarella over the sauce, then layer the cooked turkey, chicken sausage, mushrooms, onions, and turkey pepperoni. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Italian seasoning.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
Let the pizza rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.
Tips
Add spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra nutrients.
Use grass-fed lean beef instead of turkey if preferred.
Sprinkle with crushed red pepper or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6–8 slices
