The High-Carb Hurdles: Why Domino's Pizza isn't Keto-Friendly
For anyone on a ketogenic diet, the primary obstacle at any pizza chain is the high carbohydrate content. The cornerstone of a traditional pizza—the crust—is a significant source of carbs and is the main reason why Domino's standard offerings don't align with a keto plan. Even opting for a thinner crust, such as the Hand-Tossed or Brooklyn-style, will not make a pizza fully keto-compliant, as they still contain significant amounts of carbohydrates per slice.
The Crust is the Culprit
Different Domino's crusts offer varying textures and flavors, but all are built on a wheat-based dough. A single slice of a typical pizza can contain well over the daily carb limit for a strict keto dieter. While a thin crust might seem like a better choice, it still packs a considerable carb punch. For instance, a medium thin crust cheese pizza still has a high carb count per slice. Deep-dish and pan pizzas are even higher in carbs and should be strictly avoided.
Don't Forget the Sauce
Beyond the crust, the standard tomato-based pizza sauce is another hidden source of carbs. Most commercial sauces have added sugar to enhance flavor and reduce acidity, which drives up the carb count. For keto-friendly customization, it's best to request no sauce at all or ask for a drizzle of olive oil instead.
Keto-Friendly Alternatives and Ordering Strategies at Domino's
While pizza might be off the table, a trip to Domino's doesn't have to mean a cheat meal. With some strategic ordering, you can find a satisfying and delicious option. The key is to look beyond the pizza menu to items that are naturally low in carbs or can be easily modified.
Plain Chicken Wings
The most straightforward keto-friendly option is the chicken wings. It's crucial to order them plain and unsauced, as many sauces contain high amounts of sugar.
- Bone-in Wings: This is the safest choice. Order the Hot or BBQ wings without the sauce. The wings themselves are primarily fat and protein.
- Boneless Chicken: The boneless variety is breaded, which adds carbs. Avoid this option entirely.
Custom-Made Salads
Domino's offers salads that can be customized to fit your keto macros.
- Base: Start with the Classic Garden Salad, which includes a mix of greens and vegetables.
- Avoid: Make sure to skip the croutons.
- Dressings: Opt for a keto-friendly dressing like ranch, but be aware of the carb count and use sparingly, or bring your own low-carb vinaigrette.
- Add-ons: Load up on extra keto-friendly toppings like cheese, grilled chicken, or bacon.
The "Crustless Pizza" Approach
For those who truly crave the pizza flavor, some keto dieters successfully order a pizza with just the cheese, sauce (or no sauce), and toppings, baked in a pan or tin. This can be a bit unorthodox, so it's best to call ahead or use the notes section when ordering online. If successful, you'll receive a delicious bowl of melted cheese and toppings without the carby crust.
Comparison: Standard Domino's vs. Keto-Friendly Order
| Item | Carbs (per serving) | Fat (per serving) | Protein (per serving) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hand-Tossed Pizza Slice | High (Approx. 38g) | Moderate | Moderate |
| Thin Crust Pizza Slice | High (Approx. 20g) | Moderate | Moderate |
| Plain Bone-in Wings | Very Low (Approx. 1-2g) | High | High |
| Custom Salad with Oil | Low (Approx. 5g net) | Variable | Variable |
| "Crustless" Toppings Bowl | Variable (depending on ingredients) | Variable | Variable |
The Secret to a Keto-Friendly Order: Toppings and Extras
To make your customized meal both flavorful and low-carb, focus on the right ingredients.
- Meats: Load up on pepperoni, ham, bacon, beef, and grilled chicken. These are excellent sources of protein and fat, with very few carbs.
- Veggies: Add low-carb vegetables like spinach, green peppers, mushrooms, and olives. Be mindful of onions and tomatoes, which contain more sugar, and use them in moderation.
- Cheese: Domino's mozzarella is generally a good option. Feel free to add extra cheese for more fat and flavor.
- Sauces & Spices: Again, avoid the red sauce and stick with a garlic and herb seasoning, or ask for a little olive oil.
Conclusion: Navigating Domino's on a Keto Diet
Ultimately, a traditional Domino's pizza is not a keto-friendly option due to the high-carb crust and sugary sauce. However, this doesn't mean you can't enjoy a meal from the popular chain. By choosing plain bone-in wings, customizing a salad with low-carb ingredients, or even attempting a crustless pizza creation, you can satisfy your fast-food craving without disrupting your ketosis. Success lies in knowing what to avoid and getting creative with the available high-fat, high-protein menu items. Before ordering, it is always a good practice to check Domino's official nutritional information on their website for the most accurate carb counts on specific items.
Sources
- Domino's Pizza, Nutritional Information - University of Rochester Medical Center
- Everything Keto At Domino's In 2025 - KetoConnect (via Pinterest)
- Domino's Pizza, The Ultimate Guide to Eating Pizza on Keto - Heylo
- Dominos Pizza keto options? - Reddit
- Eating Out on Keto: How to Order a Keto-Friendly Pizza at a Restaurant - Big Mario's Pizza