Can You Eat Thin Crust Pizza On Keto?

A thin crust pizza may not knock you out of ketosis, but it depends on the toppings and the number of slices you eat. A typical thin-crust pizza has around 20g of carbs per slice. If you're on the IIFYM (If It Fits Your Macros) type of keto, then you may be able to enjoy a slice of thin-crust pizza occasionally. However, since it's made with white flour, it's not recommended.

Keto pizza crust ingredients

There are several keto-friendly pizza crusts that can be made with a few simple ingredients. Here are some of the most common ones:

Almond Flour Crust

This crust is made with almond flour, which is a popular alternative to traditional wheat flour in keto baking. The crust typically also includes eggs, mozzarella cheese, and cream cheese. You can also add baking powder and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavour and texture. This crust has a chewy texture and can be made crispy or thick, depending on your preference.

Coconut Flour Crust

This crust is similar to the almond flour crust but uses coconut flour instead. It is suitable for those who are allergic to nuts or prefer the flavour and texture of coconut flour. The coconut flour version may require an extra egg, as this type of flour absorbs more moisture and can fall apart easily.

Chicken Crust

For an even lower-carb option, you can make a pizza crust out of chicken! This unique crust is made by combining ground chicken or shredded chicken with eggs and Parmesan cheese. You can season it with salt and pepper to taste. Simply spread the mixture onto a pan or pizza stone and bake until cooked through. This crust provides a protein-packed base for your pizza toppings.

Cauliflower Crust

Cauliflower is another versatile ingredient that can be used to make a keto-friendly pizza crust. By combining ground cauliflower with cheese and other ingredients, you can create a crust that is low in carbs and has a similar consistency to traditional pizza dough. This option is popular among keto dieters and is a great way to sneak some extra vegetables into your meal.

Zucchini or Portobello Mushroom Crust

For an even simpler option, you can use zucchini or portobello mushrooms as your pizza "crust." Simply slice a zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the centre, or use a portobello mushroom cap as your base. Top it with your favourite sauce, cheese, and toppings, and bake until cooked to your desired doneness. These options provide a creative and tasty way to enjoy pizza while sticking to your keto diet.

Keto pizza toppings

When it comes to keto-friendly pizza toppings, you can choose from a variety of protein, vegetable, and cheese options.

Protein

• Grilled, ground, or rotisserie chicken
• Pepperoni
• Ham
• Sausage
• Bacon
• Shredded chicken
• Ground beef
• Anchovies
• Meatballs (if they don't contain breadcrumbs)

Vegetables

• Mushrooms
• Green peppers
• Onions
• Olives
• Spinach
• Tomatoes
• Broccoli
• Artichokes
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Green bell peppers
• Cherry tomatoes
• Pickled jalapeños

Cheese

• Mozzarella (shredded or fresh)
• Sharp or medium cheddar cheese
• Mexican-blend cheese
• Blue cheese crumbles
• Parmesan cheese
• Goat cheese
• Feta cheese

Keto pizza dough alternatives

A keto diet is a low-carb diet, and pizza is a carb-heavy food. However, there are many tasty alternatives to a traditional pizza crust that will allow you to enjoy pizza while still staying in ketosis.

Cauliflower Crust

Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that can be used as a low-carb substitute for rice, mashed potatoes, and even pizza crusts. By combining ground-up cauliflower with grated cheeses and other ingredients, you can form a crust-like consistency with little to no carbs. A slice of cauliflower crust pizza has only around 3g of carbs, making it a popular option among low-carb and keto dieters.

Chicken Crust

For a crust with the lowest amount of carbs, you can make a crust out of chicken. Combine ground chicken, shredded chicken, or canned chicken (well drained) with eggs and grated Parmesan cheese. Spread the mixture onto a large pan or pizza stone to form a thin crust and bake for 15-20 minutes in a 400-degree oven. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before adding toppings and baking again until the cheese is melted.

Zucchini Crust

Slice a large zucchini in half lengthwise, scoop out the center, and fill it with your desired sauce, cheese, and toppings. Then, bake until the zucchini "crust" is tender and the cheese is melted.

Portobello Mushroom Crust

Portobello mushrooms can also serve as a pizza crust. Simply top the mushroom cap with sauce, cheese, and your desired toppings, and bake in the oven. They are small and fun to eat, and they are keto and delicious.

Almond Flour Crust

Almond flour is another popular alternative for those looking for a keto-friendly pizza crust. It is important to note that you must use blanched almond flour, not almond meal, as the latter will yield a grittier pizza crust that will burn easily.

Coconut Flour Crust

Coconut flour is a keto-friendly alternative to almond flour, but it is important to note that they have different baking properties and should not be substituted for each other.

Fathead Dough Crust

Fathead dough is a popular keto pizza crust made with shredded mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, eggs, and almond or coconut flour. This dough is easy to work with and can be rolled out between two sheets of parchment paper or shaped with greased hands.

There are many alternatives to traditional pizza crusts that will allow you to enjoy pizza while following a keto diet. Whether you choose a vegetable-based crust, a chicken crust, or a keto-friendly flour, you can still enjoy the taste and convenience of pizza.

Keto pizza crust preparation

Ingredients:

• Low-carb flour (almond flour or coconut flour)
• Eggs
• Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• Cream cheese (cut into cubes)
• Olive oil
• Pizza sauce
• Toppings of choice

Method:

Preheat the oven to 200C/400F. Lightly grease a pizza pan or baking sheet.

In a mixing bowl, whisk the almond flour to ensure there are no clumps. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the mozzarella cheese and cream cheese in 20-second intervals or until slightly melted. Whisk the cheeses together, then add the almond flour and eggs. Mix until a sticky dough remains.

Place a piece of parchment paper on a flat surface and the dough on top. Place a second piece of parchment paper over it. Roll out the dough with a rolling pin until it is 1/4" or 1/2" thick. Remove the top sheet and shape the dough into a pizza shape.

Place the dough on the pizza pan and bake for 10-12 minutes.

Remove the crust from the oven and add the sauce, cheese, and toppings. Brush the sides with olive oil and bake for another 10-12 minutes or until the cheese has melted.

Tips:

• Use blanched almond flour, not almond meal, to avoid a grittier pizza crust that will burn easily.
• Use low-moisture mozzarella cheese to keep the crust chewy and fluffy.
• Use cream cheese from a stick or block, not a tub, to avoid a soggy crust.
• Use room temperature eggs.
• Use store-bought pizza sauce or make your own with common pantry ingredients.
• Flavour the keto pizza crust with garlic powder or dried oregano.
• Oil the pizza pan to prevent the crust from sticking.
• Don't skip pre-baking the crust, or it will be slightly raw and undercooked.
• For a chewier texture, add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum to the dough before mixing in the cheeses.
• For a more airy crust, add 1-2 teaspoons of baking powder.
• To make the dough ahead, form it into a ball, cover it, and keep it in the fridge for up to a week.
• To freeze the dough, form it into a ball, cover it, and freeze for up to 2 months.
• To freeze a pre-baked crust, wrap it and freeze for up to 2 months.
• To freeze a whole pizza with sauce and toppings, place it in the freezer immediately so that the crust doesn't get soggy.

Keto pizza crust storage

Keto pizza crust can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to six months.

If you want to make the dough ahead of time, you can form it into a ball, cover it tightly in plastic wrap, and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. You can also pre-bake the crust, wrap it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

To freeze the keto pizza crust, you can freeze the ball of dough (after thawing before rolling) or the pre-baked crust. You can even freeze the entire pizza with sauce and toppings, but be sure to place it in the freezer immediately to prevent the crust from getting soggy. When you're ready to bake, add any desired toppings and bake for about 20 minutes at 350°F. Do not thaw the frozen pizza before baking.

• Leftovers: Keep them in the fridge for up to 3-5 days.
• Reheating: Microwave the slices for 30 seconds, use a preheated oven (180°C/350°F), or toast them in a non-stick pan.

Frequently asked questions