Zucchini Pizza Casserole

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to enjoy pizza without the carbs, then this Zucchini Pizza Casserole is just what you need! This recipe has quickly become a family favorite in my home. It’s packed with savory beef, melty cheese, and all those classic pizza toppings we love, but with a healthy twist thanks to the zucchini. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this casserole makes mealtime feel special.

Not only is it easy to put together, but it also brings everyone together around the table. Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this cheesy delight.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can easily assemble it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Healthy twist on pizza: Enjoy all your favorite flavors without the guilt of traditional pizza crust.
• Versatile ingredients: Feel free to customize based on what you have on hand or your family’s taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! They come together beautifully to create a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet nutritious.

For the Zucchini Crust

• 4 cups shredded zucchini
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

For the Topping

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cups pizza sauce
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Variations

This Zucchini Pizza Casserole is incredibly flexible! You can easily tweak it to match your family’s taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or provolone for a unique twist.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.

How to Make Zucchini Pizza Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini Crust

First things first—preheating your oven is key! Set it to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare your zucchini. Combine the shredded zucchini with salt in a large bowl and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps draw out excess moisture so your crust isn’t soggy later on. After waiting patiently, squeeze out as much liquid from the zucchini as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.

Step 2: Mix the Crust Ingredients

In that same bowl, mix together your drained zucchini with eggs, Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. This mixture will form your crust. It’s important to mix well so that everything binds together nicely when baked.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and press your zucchini mixture evenly into the bottom. Bake this crust in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes until it’s set and lightly browned. This step is crucial; it ensures your casserole has a solid base to hold all those delicious toppings!

Step 4: Cook the Beef Mixture

While your crust is baking, take out a skillet. Brown the ground beef along with chopped onion over medium heat until there’s no pink left in sight. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Now stir in pizza sauce, green bell pepper, mushrooms, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper. Let everything cook together for another five minutes—this allows those flavors to meld perfectly!

Step 5: Assemble Your Casserole

Once your crust is ready, spread that flavorful beef mixture evenly over top of it. Then sprinkle on the remaining mozzarella cheese along with all of that tasty cheddar cheese you prepared earlier.

Step 6: Bake Again

Return everything back into the oven for another 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly—trust me; it’s hard not to sneak a bite at this point!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

When it’s finally out of the oven, let it cool for just a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm and watch as everyone gathers around for seconds—this Zucchini Pizza Casserole will surely become a cherished recipe in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Zucchini Pizza Casserole

Making the perfect Zucchini Pizza Casserole can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the best results!

• Squeeze Out Moisture Thoroughly: It’s crucial to squeeze out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible. This prevents your casserole from becoming soggy and ensures a firmer crust.
• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to personalize your casserole! You can add your favorite pizza toppings like olives, jalapeños, or even spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving can enhance the flavors of your casserole and give it a vibrant touch.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing helps it hold its shape better. This way, you’ll have neat slices that are easier to serve.
• Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They taste even better the next day, as the flavors meld together beautifully!

How to Serve Zucchini Pizza Casserole

Serving your Zucchini Pizza Casserole is just as important as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a lovely aroma and a hint of color, making your casserole look inviting.
• Parmesan Shavings: A few delicate shavings of Parmesan cheese on top right before serving can elevate the dish’s visual appeal and flavor.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, offering crushed red pepper flakes on the side allows guests to customize their servings.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole perfectly, adding freshness and crunch.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and warm garlic breadsticks are always a hit! They provide a comforting side that pairs well with pizza-inspired dishes.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds a nutritious element to your meal while balancing out the cheesy goodness of the casserole.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring more color and flavor to your table. Options like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus work wonderfully with this dish!

Enjoy your Zucchini Pizza Casserole with these delightful garnishes and sides; it’s sure to be a hit at any dinner table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Zucchini Pizza Casserole is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste incredible, but it also stores well, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool entirely before freezing.
• Cut into individual portions for easier thawing.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place in freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave: heat individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful dish.

Can I use zucchini noodles instead of shredded zucchini for Zucchini Pizza Casserole?

While you can experiment with zucchini noodles, they may release more moisture than shredded zucchini. It’s best to stick with shredded zucchini for a firmer crust.

How can I make Zucchini Pizza Casserole vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or increase the quantity of vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach.

Can I make Zucchini Pizza Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure not to add cheese until just before baking!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Zucchini Pizza Casserole as much as I do! It’s a wonderful way to incorporate veggies into a family-favorite dish while keeping things fun and flavorful. Whether you’re meal prepping or enjoying dinner with loved ones, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around. Happy cooking!