For those adhering to a strict carnivore diet, traditional pizza is off-limits. But fear not, pizza lovers! Carnivore Pizza offers a creative and meaty twist on this classic comfort food, satisfying cravings while staying true to animal-based eating principles.
What is Carnivore Pizza?
Carnivore Pizza reimagines pizza with an animal-based focus. The crust, primarily made from ground turkey or chicken, provides a sturdy and flavorful base without grains or keto flours. This animal-based crust rivals traditional pizza crusts in both texture and flavor. It can be made crispy or soft, holding its shape remarkably well. The toppings, of course, are all animal-based.
Tools Needed:
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Mixing spatula
- Pizza cutter
- Mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Carnivore Pizza:
Crust:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees and line a baking sheet or pizza stone with parchment paper.
- Combine all crust ingredients in a medium bowl. Use a hand beater to mix until well combined (using only 2 tablespoons of butter initially).
- Place the mixture on the prepared baking sheet and flatten into a circle about ¼ inch thick.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the top just begins to brown slightly.
- While the crust bakes, brown the ground sausage topping (if using).
- Remove the crust from the oven and spread the remaining tablespoon of butter (and optional seasoning) over the crust.
- Bake for another 5-10 minutes.
Assembly:
- Add pizza sauce ingredients to a saucepan over medium heat and stir gently until combined.
- Spread a layer of sauce over the baked crust.
- Layer toppings as desired (e.g., mozzarella cheese, cooked ground sausage, pepperoni).
- Bake for an additional 7-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
Carnivore Pizza Substitutions:
- Crust: Ground turkey can be substituted with ground chicken or beef. Ground turkey and chicken work best.
- Pork Rinds: If you don’t have pork rinds, additional Parmesan or another hard, grated cheese can help bind the crust.
- Cream Cheese: Ricotta or cottage cheese can be used for a different sauce texture.
Can You Eat Pizza on the Carnivore Diet?
Yes! With the right adjustments, you can enjoy pizza on a carnivore diet. The key is to replace the grain-based crust and vegetable toppings with entirely animal-based alternatives.
Optional Carnivore Toppings:
- Cheese (mozzarella, etc.)
- Meats (bacon, ham, thinly sliced steak, etc.)
- Seasonings (Italian seasoning, herbs, etc. – if your version of the diet allows)
Cooking Tips and Tricks:
- Patience with the Crust: Ensure the meat crust is fully cooked before adding toppings.
- High Heat: A hot oven is essential for a crispy crust and melted cheese.
- Resting Time: Let the pizza rest for a few minutes after baking for easier slicing.
Carnivore Pizza
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
Calories: 584 kcal
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 pound ground turkey or ground chicken
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup pork rinds
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons melted butter, divided
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Pizza Sauce
- ¼ cup bone broth
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese
Toppings
- 1¼ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ pound ground pork
- Pepperoni
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet or pizza stone with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix the crust ingredients, using only 2 tablespoons of melted butter, until well combined.
- Flatten the mixture into a ¼-inch thick circle on the baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes until lightly browned.
- While the crust bakes, brown the ground pork if using, then brush the baked crust with the remaining tablespoon of butter and optional seasoning before baking for 5-10 more minutes.
- Heat the pizza sauce ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until smooth, then spread over the crust, add mozzarella, cooked pork, and pepperoni, and bake for 7-10 minutes until melted