The Truth About MOD Pizza's Keto Options
For many followers of the ketogenic diet, dining out can be a challenge, especially when navigating menu options at popular eateries like MOD Pizza. The question, "Does MOD Pizza have Keto crust?" is a common one, and the definitive answer is no. While the restaurant offers a cauliflower crust, it is a crucial and often overlooked fact that this alternative is not a low-carb or keto-compliant choice. This article will explain why MOD Pizza's cauliflower crust doesn't fit the ketogenic mold, offer practical strategies for building a truly keto-friendly meal, and suggest alternative solutions for your low-carb pizza cravings.
The Misconception of the Cauliflower Crust
The most frequent point of confusion for keto dieters at MOD Pizza is the cauliflower crust. Many assume that because it is not made from traditional wheat flour, it must be low in carbohydrates. However, this is far from the truth. A full MOD-sized cauliflower crust can contain upwards of 80 grams of carbohydrates, which is more than enough to knock someone out of ketosis. The reason for this high carb count lies in the ingredients. MOD Pizza's cauliflower crust is not made of pure cauliflower, eggs, and cheese as many homemade keto versions are. Instead, it includes additional flours and fillers that significantly increase the carbohydrate content, making it nutritionally similar to their standard crust. This is a critical distinction that can make or break a diet, and it highlights the importance of checking nutritional information directly from the source.
How to Order a Keto-Friendly Meal at MOD Pizza
Even without a dedicated keto crust, a delicious and compliant meal is possible at MOD Pizza by customizing your order. The best approach for a keto diet is to skip the crust altogether. The beauty of MOD's build-your-own model is that you can assemble a "crustless pizza" or a hearty salad packed with high-fat, low-carb ingredients.
Building a Keto Pizza Bowl (Crustless Pizza)
- Start with the Base: Ask for your toppings to be cooked in a metal pan or served over a bed of greens in a salad bowl. This creates a satisfying deconstructed pizza experience without the carbs.
- Choose Your Sauce: Select a low-carb sauce base. The signature red sauce is a safe choice, containing very few carbs per serving. Avoid the sweeter BBQ sauces or those with added sugars.
- Load Up on Protein: This is where you can truly make your meal filling and keto-friendly. Choose from a variety of meats:
- Pepperoni
- Crispy Bacon
- Canadian Bacon
- Grilled Chicken
- Mild Italian Sausage
- Pile on the Cheese: Cheese is a staple of the keto diet. You can add plenty of rich, flavorful options:
- Mozzarella
- Asiago
- Feta
- Gorgonzola
- Parmesan
- Add Your Veggies: Round out your meal with fresh, low-carb vegetables for flavor and micronutrients:
- Mushrooms
- Black Olives
- Green Bell Peppers
- Jalapeños
- Roasted Red Peppers
- Fresh Basil or Arugula (add after cooking)
- Finishing Touches: For extra fat and flavor, ask for a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Comparison of MOD Pizza Crusts vs. a True Keto Crust
To better illustrate the difference, here is a comparison table outlining the nutritional and ingredient differences between the available MOD Pizza crusts and a typical homemade or competitor's keto crust.
| Feature | MOD Original Crust | MOD Cauliflower Crust | Typical Keto Crust (e.g., Fathead) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Enriched Wheat Flour, Water, Oil, Salt, Yeast | Water, Cauliflower, Rice Flour, Corn Starch, Tapioca Flour | Almond Flour, Mozzarella, Cream Cheese, Egg |
| Carbohydrates | High (around 95g per MOD size) | High (around 87g per MOD size) | Very Low (approx. 6g net carbs per crust) |
| Keto Status | Not Keto-Friendly | Not Keto-Friendly | Keto-Friendly |
| Gluten-Free | No | Yes (prepared in same area as wheat) | Yes |
Alternative Keto Pizza Options
If the idea of a crustless pizza bowl doesn't satisfy your craving, there are other strategies to get your pizza fix while staying in ketosis. Many keto dieters have success with at-home recipes or with competing restaurants that offer truly low-carb crusts.
The DIY Approach
Making your own keto pizza crust at home is a popular and reliable method. Numerous recipes are available online for "fathead" dough, which uses mozzarella, cream cheese, and almond flour to create a delicious and chewy crust with minimal carbs. Alternatively, a crust can be made from a mixture of ground chicken, cheese, and eggs for a high-protein option. By creating your own base, you have full control over the ingredients and can ensure it aligns perfectly with your macros. Once you have your homemade crust, you can load it up with your favorite MOD Pizza toppings for a copycat experience.
Other Pizza Restaurants
Some pizza chains have recognized the demand for genuinely keto-friendly options and have introduced certified low-carb crusts. For example, Blaze Pizza is known for offering a keto crust, providing a convenient alternative for those who don't want to make their own. The availability of these options can vary by location, so it is always wise to check their specific menu and nutritional information online before visiting.
Conclusion
In summary, while MOD Pizza is an excellent choice for highly customizable pizza, it does not currently offer a keto crust. The widely available cauliflower crust, despite its healthier-sounding name, is packed with carbohydrates and is not suitable for a ketogenic diet. For those committed to their low-carb lifestyle, the best strategy at MOD is to get creative with their signature build-your-own model by ordering a crustless pizza or a generous salad. By understanding the nutritional facts and exploring alternative crust options, you can still enjoy a delicious, keto-friendly meal that satisfies your cravings without compromising your dietary goals.
Keto-Friendly Toppings List
- Sauces: Signature Red Sauce, Garlic Rub, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Cheeses: Mozzarella, Asiago, Feta, Gorgonzola, Parmesan
- Proteins: Pepperoni, Grilled Chicken, Canadian Bacon, Crispy Bacon, Mild Italian Sausage, Salami
- Veggies & Herbs: Basil, Roasted Red Peppers, Green Peppers, Mushrooms, Black Olives, Jalapeños, Arugula
Remember to check the MOD Pizza menu for the most up-to-date options and seasonal availability.
How to Build a Keto Pizza Bowl at MOD
- Ask for a Salad Base: Start by ordering a salad and let the MOD Squad member know you want it with pizza toppings and no lettuce.
- Add Your Sauce and Cheese: Select a low-carb sauce and plenty of cheese.
- Choose Your Toppings: Pile on your favorite low-carb meats and veggies.
- Cook It Up: Ask for the bowl to be run through the oven so everything is hot, melted, and delicious.
- Finish Strong: Drizzle with olive oil or add a dash of oregano for flavor.
This method transforms a standard order into a satisfying, keto-compliant meal that feels like a real treat.
Comparison of MOD Pizza Crusts and their Keto Status
| Crust Type | Approximate Carbs (MOD Size) | Keto Friendly? | Key Ingredients | Good For Keto Diet? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Original | ~95g | No | Enriched Wheat Flour | No |
| Cauliflower | ~87g | No | Cauliflower, Rice Flour, Corn Starch | No |
| DIY Fathead | ~6g Net Carbs | Yes | Almond Flour, Mozzarella, Cream Cheese, Egg | Yes |
| Blaze Keto | ~6g Net Carbs | Yes | Flour blend designed for low carbs | Yes |
Final Keto Tips for MOD Pizza
- Beware of Hidden Carbs: Sauces can contain sugar, so stick to the basics like the signature red sauce or olive oil.
- Protein is Your Friend: Load up on meats to increase satiety and keep carbs low.
- Check the App: Use the online nutrition calculator to build and verify your order before you go.
- Embrace the Salad: Don't be afraid to just get a massive salad with all the pizza toppings for a delicious and easy keto meal.
