This Pizza Protein Bowl is a fun twist on your favorite pizza! It’s packed with tasty toppings like chicken, cheese, and veggies, all on a hearty base of quinoa or brown rice.
I love how easy it is to whip up, and it’s a great way to sneak in some extra protein. Plus, you can mix and match toppings to create your perfect bowl! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey or Chicken: I love using ground turkey for a leaner option, but you can use ground beef or even plant-based meat if you prefer. Just remember that it might change the flavor a bit!
Marinara Sauce: Any pizza-style sauce works. Try homemade, store-bought, or even a salad dressing with tomato base if in a pinch. It adds essential flavor to your dish.
Zucchini: Sliced zucchini gives a great texture. If you don’t have zucchini, bell peppers or mushrooms can both work nicely as substitutes.
Avocado: Adds creaminess, but if you don’t have it, a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt can also go on top for added richness.
Pepperoni: It’s optional, so feel free to skip it or substitute with turkey pepperoni or even olives for a different twist.
How Can I Make Sure the Ground Turkey is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking ground turkey can be tricky, but here’s how to nail it every time:
- Use medium heat to prevent burning. Browning will take about 5-7 minutes.
- Stick a meat thermometer in the middle – it should read 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Break the meat apart with a spatula to cook it evenly and avoid large clumps.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary; sometimes it needs a little more salt!
These simple tips will help your turkey always turn out juicy and flavorful! Enjoy your cooking!
Delicious Pizza Protein Bowl Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey or chicken
- 1 cup marinara sauce (pizza-style tomato sauce)
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 cup cooked cauliflower rice or quinoa (base)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes in total to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and about 15-20 minutes cooking everything up. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Meat:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground turkey or chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is fully cooked through and no longer pink. This is the base of your protein bowl!
2. Add the Sauce:
Once your meat is cooked, pour in the marinara sauce. Stir well to combine everything and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend nicely, making your dish extra tasty!
3. Sauté the Zucchini:
While the meat is simmering, grab a small pan and heat it over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini and sauté for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are slightly tender and golden. This adds a delicious crunch and flavor to your bowl.
4. Create Your Base:
Now it’s time to build your bowl! Start by dividing the cooked cauliflower rice or quinoa between your serving bowls. This will be the hearty base for all your yummy toppings!
5. Assemble the Bowls:
Spoon the meat and marinara mixture over the cauliflower rice or quinoa, making sure to get that delicious sauce on everything. Next, top each bowl with the sautéed zucchini, slices of avocado, shredded mozzarella cheese, and those optional pepperoni slices if you’re using them!
6. Melt the Cheese:
To really bring all the flavors together, place the assembled bowls in a preheated oven or under the broiler for about 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the cheese melts and bubbles — it’s hard to resist that cheesy goodness!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted, carefully remove the bowls from the oven. Garnish with fresh chopped basil for that added burst of flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy a hearty meal packed with delicious pizza flavors!
This Pizza Protein Bowl is a fun and healthy twist on traditional pizza, so dig in and savor every bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground turkey or chicken with ground beef, pork, or even a plant-based meat alternative like lentils or tempeh for a vegetarian option. Just be mindful of cooking times for different meats.
What Can I Substitute for Marinara Sauce?
If you’re out of marinara, you can use pizza sauce, tomato sauce, or even a simple mix of canned tomatoes with Italian herbs. For a unique twist, try using pesto for a fresh flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water to the rice or quinoa to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Bowl Vegetarian?
Yes! You can make this bowl vegetarian by omitting the meat and replacing it with extra veggies such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or chickpeas for protein. You can also add more cheese or a dollop of ricotta for creaminess!
