The ketogenic diet, commonly referred to as the keto diet, is a low-carb, high-fat diet that has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential health benefits, including weight loss, improved blood sugar control, and increased energy levels. However, one of the biggest challenges of following a keto diet is finding delicious and convenient food options that fit within the diet’s strict guidelines. Pizza, in particular, is a favorite food for many, but it’s often high in carbs and sugar, making it seem off-limits for keto dieters. But fear not, keto enthusiasts! In this article, we’ll explore the world of keto pizza and provide you with the ultimate guide on what pizza you can eat on keto and how to make it.
Understanding the Keto Diet and Its Guidelines
Before we dive into the world of keto pizza, it’s essential to understand the basics of the keto diet and its guidelines. The keto diet is a high-fat, low-carb diet that aims to put the body into a state of ketosis, where the body burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. To achieve this, keto dieters need to follow a strict set of guidelines, including:
- Eating a high-fat diet, with fat making up 70-80% of daily calories
- Keeping carbohydrate intake low, with carbs making up 5-10% of daily calories
- Eating moderate amounts of protein, with protein making up 15-20% of daily calories
- Avoiding sugary foods, grains, and starchy vegetables
Keto Pizza Crust Options
When it comes to keto pizza, the crust is often the biggest challenge. Traditional pizza crusts are made with wheat flour, which is high in carbs and sugar. However, there are several keto-friendly pizza crust options available, including:
- Cauliflower crust: Made by pulsing cauliflower in a food processor and then baking it into a crust shape, cauliflower crust is a popular keto pizza option.
- Almond flour crust: Made with almond flour and eggs, almond flour crust is a low-carb and gluten-free option.
- Coconut flour crust: Made with coconut flour and eggs, coconut flour crust is a low-carb and gluten-free option.
- Fat head crust: Made with cream cheese, eggs, and shredded mozzarella, fat head crust is a low-carb and high-fat option.
Homemade Keto Pizza Crust Recipe
Making your own keto pizza crust at home is easier than you think. Here’s a simple recipe for a delicious and crispy cauliflower crust:
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cauliflower
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
- Microwave the cauliflower for 4-5 minutes, stirring every minute, until it’s soft and has a cooked consistency.
- Allow the cauliflower to cool, then transfer it to a clean dish towel.
- Wrap the dish towel around the cauliflower and squeeze as much liquid as possible out of it.
- In a bowl, combine the drained cauliflower, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well, then transfer the mixture to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Use your hands to shape the mixture into a circle or rectangle, depending on your preference.
- Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and crispy.
Keto Pizza Toppings
When it comes to keto pizza toppings, the options are endless. Here are some delicious and keto-friendly topping ideas:
- Meats: pepperoni, sausage, bacon, ham, and chicken
- Vegetables: mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, and olives
- Cheeses: mozzarella, Parmesan, and feta
- Herbs: basil, oregano, and garlic
Keto Pizza Sauce Options
Traditional pizza sauce is made with tomatoes, which are relatively high in carbs. However, there are several keto-friendly pizza sauce options available, including:
- Tomato sauce made with fresh tomatoes and no added sugar
- Pesto sauce made with basil, garlic, and olive oil
- Alfredo sauce made with heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan
Homemade Keto Pizza Sauce Recipe
Making your own keto pizza sauce at home is easy and delicious. Here’s a simple recipe for a homemade tomato sauce:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of fresh tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the diced tomatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper to the saucepan.
- Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s thickened and reduced.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until it’s smooth.
Keto Pizza Restaurants and Delivery Options
While making your own keto pizza at home is delicious and convenient, sometimes you just want to order in or eat out. Fortunately, there are several keto-friendly pizza restaurants and delivery options available, including:
- Caulipower: A keto-friendly pizza chain with locations across the US
- Blaze Pizza: A fast-casual pizza chain with a keto-friendly menu option
- Domino’s Pizza: A popular pizza delivery chain with a keto-friendly cauliflower crust option
Keto Pizza Delivery Options
If you’re looking for keto pizza delivery options, there are several services available, including:
- Uber Eats: A food delivery service that partners with local restaurants to deliver keto-friendly pizza options
- GrubHub: A food delivery service that partners with local restaurants to deliver keto-friendly pizza options
- DoorDash: A food delivery service that partners with local restaurants to deliver keto-friendly pizza options
Conclusion
Keto pizza is a delicious and convenient food option that can be enjoyed by keto dieters and non-keto dieters alike. With a variety of keto-friendly pizza crust options, toppings, and sauces available, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re making your own keto pizza at home or ordering in from a keto-friendly restaurant, there’s never been a better time to enjoy a slice (or two) of keto pizza.
By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can enjoy a delicious and keto-friendly pizza that fits within your dietary needs. So go ahead, get creative with your keto pizza toppings, and indulge in a slice (or two) of this delicious and convenient food option.
What is a keto pizza, and how does it differ from a traditional pizza?
A keto pizza is a low-carb, high-fat version of traditional pizza, designed to fit within the ketogenic diet’s guidelines. The main difference between a keto pizza and a traditional pizza is the crust. Traditional pizza crusts are made from wheat flour, which is high in carbohydrates, whereas keto pizza crusts are made from low-carb ingredients such as almond flour, coconut flour, or cauliflower.
To make a keto pizza, you’ll also need to be mindful of the toppings. Focus on high-fat, low-carb ingredients like meats, cheeses, and vegetables. Avoid sugary sauces and high-carb toppings like beans, corn, and pineapple. By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying pizza that fits within your keto diet.
What are some popular low-carb crust options for keto pizza?
There are several popular low-carb crust options for keto pizza, including cauliflower crust, almond flour crust, and coconut flour crust. Cauliflower crust is a popular choice because it’s low in carbs and can be made at home by pulsing cauliflower in a food processor and then baking it in the oven. Almond flour crust is another popular option, made by combining almond flour with eggs and cheese. Coconut flour crust is a good choice for those who are looking for a gluten-free option.
When choosing a low-carb crust, be sure to read the ingredient label and nutrition facts to ensure that it fits within your daily carb limit. You can also make your own crust at home using a variety of low-carb ingredients. Experiment with different recipes and ingredients to find the one that works best for you.
What are some keto-friendly toppings for pizza?
There are many delicious keto-friendly toppings for pizza, including meats, cheeses, and vegetables. Some popular options include pepperoni, sausage, bacon, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers. You can also use keto-friendly sauces like pesto or olive oil to add flavor to your pizza.
When choosing toppings, be sure to focus on high-fat, low-carb ingredients. Avoid sugary sauces and high-carb toppings like beans, corn, and pineapple. You can also get creative with your toppings and try new ingredients like prosciutto or arugula. Just be sure to track your macros and ensure that your toppings fit within your daily carb limit.
Can I use a pre-made keto pizza crust, or do I need to make my own?
You can use a pre-made keto pizza crust, but be sure to read the ingredient label and nutrition facts to ensure that it fits within your daily carb limit. Many pre-made keto pizza crusts are available in stores and online, made with low-carb ingredients like almond flour and coconut flour. However, some pre-made crusts may contain hidden carbs or ingredients that don’t fit within a keto diet.
If you prefer to make your own crust, there are many simple recipes available online. Making your own crust allows you to control the ingredients and ensure that it fits within your daily carb limit. You can also experiment with different ingredients and recipes to find the one that works best for you.
How do I track my macros on a keto pizza?
To track your macros on a keto pizza, you’ll need to calculate the carb, protein, and fat content of your crust and toppings. You can use a food tracker or app to help you calculate your macros. Start by tracking the ingredients and portion sizes of your crust and toppings, then calculate the total carb, protein, and fat content.
Be sure to track your macros carefully to ensure that you’re staying within your daily carb limit. A general rule of thumb is to keep your daily carb intake under 20-50 grams per day. You can adjust your toppings and portion sizes to fit within your daily carb limit and ensure that you’re staying in ketosis.
Can I eat keto pizza if I’m a vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, you can eat keto pizza if you’re a vegetarian or vegan. There are many delicious keto-friendly toppings that are vegetarian or vegan, including mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, and olives. You can also use vegetarian or vegan cheese alternatives to add flavor to your pizza.
When choosing a crust, be sure to select a vegetarian or vegan option. Many low-carb crusts are made with eggs or cheese, so be sure to read the ingredient label carefully. You can also make your own crust at home using vegetarian or vegan ingredients. Experiment with different recipes and ingredients to find the one that works best for you.
How often can I eat keto pizza on a ketogenic diet?
You can eat keto pizza as often as you like on a ketogenic diet, as long as you’re tracking your macros and staying within your daily carb limit. However, it’s generally recommended to eat keto pizza in moderation, as it can be high in calories and fat.
A good rule of thumb is to limit your keto pizza intake to 1-2 times per week. This will allow you to enjoy your favorite food while still staying on track with your diet. Be sure to balance your keto pizza with other nutrient-dense foods, including meats, vegetables, and healthy fats.