This Pizza Protein Bowl is a fun twist on pizza! With tasty ingredients like chicken, peppers, and cheese, it’s all the flavors you love without the crust.
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up! Just toss everything in a bowl, sprinkle with your favorite toppings, and enjoy. Who says you can’t have pizza on a weekday? 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Quinoa: This is the base of your bowl, providing protein and a nutty flavor. If you can’t find quinoa, you can use brown rice, farro, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: They add moisture and flavor. You can swap these for fresh tomatoes, but make sure to chop and drain them well. For a spicier kick, consider diced tomatoes with green chilies!
Green Bell Pepper: These contribute crunch and color. You can use any bell pepper color—red, yellow, or orange—for a sweeter taste or even zucchini for a different texture.
Mushrooms: They add earthiness. If you’re not a fan, try spinach or kale, or skip them completely for a simpler bowl.
Pepperoni: This classic topping takes it to pizza levels! If you need a healthier alternative, turkey pepperoni or a plant-based version works great. Even cooked chicken or sausage would fit well!
How Do I Make Sure the Cheese Melts Perfectly?
Melting cheese under a broiler gives you that gooey texture we all love. To get it just right, follow these tips:
- Use shredded cheese for even melting. Block cheese can take longer to melt.
- Keep an eye on the cheese while it’s under the broiler. It can go from beautifully melted to burnt in just seconds.
- If you don’t have a broiler, a microwave works too! Just heat the bowl in 30-second intervals until the cheese is melty.
How to Make a Delicious Pizza Protein Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes (drained)
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6-8 slices pepperoni
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
What Time Do You Need?
This Pizza Protein Bowl takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight meal or a hearty lunch. Just gather your ingredients and follow these simple steps!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base Ingredients:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic, stirring it around for about 1 minute until it smells amazing. Then, add the diced green bell peppers and sliced mushrooms. Sauté these for about 4-5 minutes until they soften up. Don’t forget to sprinkle in some salt, pepper, oregano, and basil for extra flavor!
2. Mix in Quinoa and Tomatoes:
Next, stir in your cooked quinoa and drained canned diced tomatoes. Mix everything together well, and let it heat through for a couple of minutes. Taste it and add more seasoning if you like — this is your chance to make it just the way you want!
3. Assemble the Bowl:
Transfer your quinoa and veggie mix to a bowl, and then it’s time to add the fun part—top it off with shredded mozzarella cheese. Spread it evenly over the top for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
4. Add the Pepperoni:
Now, layer the pepperoni slices right on top of the cheese. You can arrange them however you like — more pepperoni means more flavor!
5. Melt the Cheese:
Put the bowl under the broiler or in a toaster oven until the cheese melts and starts to bubble — this should take about 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to make sure it doesn’t burn!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheese is bubbly and melting, take it out carefully. Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it warm and enjoy your hearty Pizza Protein Bowl!
This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it a nutritious meal option. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Cooked Chicken Instead of Pepperoni?
Absolutely! For a healthier twist or to add extra protein, cooked chicken works great. Simply shred or dice the chicken and mix it in with the quinoa and vegetables.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, you can reheat it in the microwave or warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if it looks dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! Just omit the pepperoni and use plant-based cheese if you’d like. You can also add more vegetables or beans to boost the fiber and protein content.
What If I Don’t Have Quinoa on Hand?
No problem! You can substitute with brown rice, farro, or even couscous. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower rice makes a great alternative as well.
