Craving pizza but looking to cut back on carbs? Look no further than this Zucchini Pizza Casserole! This delightful dish combines all the cheesy, saucy goodness we love about pizza, reimagined with a zucchini crust that will have your family going back for seconds. It’s an easy recipe that lets you enjoy the flavors of your favorite pizza without derailing your diet. Perfect for weeknight dinners and effortless enough for those who may shy away from more complicated cooking techniques.
What makes this Zucchini Pizza Casserole special is the crisp yet tender zucchini base that holds everything together, while the combination of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and multiple cheeses bring your pizza cravings to life. Not only is it low-carb, but it’s also packed with nutrients, meaning it caters to both palate and health-conscious eaters! From the rich mozzarella to the deliciously seasoned beef and veggies, even the pickiest eaters won’t be able to resist this mouthwatering concoction.
Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Pizza Casserole
- Low-Carb Bliss: Enjoy all the flavors of pizza without the guilt. This dish is perfect for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets.
- Family-Friendly: With a flavor profile that everyone loves, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to prepare.
- Customizable: Feel free to add or swap in your favorite pizza toppings, making each casserole unique.
- Easy Prep: This casserole comes together quickly with minimal fuss—ideal for busy weeknights!
- Packed with Nutrition: Zucchini provides fiber and vitamins, making this meal wholesome and satisfying.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this tasty recipe, it’s essential to prepare your workspace efficiently. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it’s ready when it’s time to bake the casserole. Gather the necessary tools: a large bowl for mixing, a cheesecloth or towel for squeezing out the zucchini moisture, a skillet for cooking the ground beef and vegetables, and a greased 9×13″ baking dish for assembling your casserole. Ensuring your work area is tidy and your tools are at hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Ingredients
- 3 cups shredded zucchini
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1½ cups pizza sauce
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
Start by shredding the zucchini and then mixing it with salt in a large bowl. Allow this mixture to rest for about ten minutes; this step helps draw out excess moisture, crucial for achieving a sturdy crust. After the waiting period, use a cheesecloth or a towel to squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This will prevent your casserole from becoming soggy and ensure a perfect texture.
Step 2: Combine the Crust Mixture
Once the zucchini is well-drained, add in the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir this mixture until it’s thoroughly combined, forming a cohesive crust mix. The addition of eggs is vital, as it acts as a binding agent that holds the zucchini together during baking.
Step 3: Bake the Zucchini Base
Grease your baking dish with a bit of oil or non-stick spray, then carefully press your zucchini mixture into the bottom of the dish. Make sure it’s evenly distributed for consistent cooking. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the crust is set and lightly golden. This initial baking allows the zucchini base to firm up and serve as the perfect foundation for the flavorful toppings to come.
Step 4: Cook the Beef Mixture
While the zucchini is baking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from being greasy. Next, stir in pizza sauce, bell pepper, sliced mushrooms, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper. Allow this mixture to simmer for another five minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Casserole
Once the zucchini crust is ready, it’s time to spread the beef mixture evenly over the top. This adds that hearty, indulgent layer to your casserole. After noon, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and all of the cheddar cheese on top. Return the baking dish to the oven, allowing it to bake for an additional 20 minutes. The goal here is for the cheese to melt beautifully and become bubbly and golden.
Variations
- Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, sausage, or even shredded chicken—fantastic for diversifying flavors.
- Vegetables: Add other toppings like spinach, olives, or artichokes for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with different seasoning blends such as Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes for added kick.
Cooking Notes
- Adjust the amount of salt depending on your dietary needs or preferences, especially if you’re using premade pizza sauce.
- If you want an even crispier crust, consider broiling the dish for the last few minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a fresh garden salad to balance the rich flavors of the casserole.
- Pair with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of ranch dressing for added decadence.
Tips
- For a portable dish, consider making this casserole ahead of time and reheating it for a quick meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat in the oven for best results.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in the crust?
Yes! While zucchini is the star of this dish, you can try using yellow squash or even cauliflower for an interesting twist.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze it before or after baking. Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before freezing, and store it in a suitable freezer-safe container.
What can I serve with Zucchini Pizza Casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Zucchini Pizza Casserole takes the beloved flavors of pizza and gives them a nutritious twist while keeping all the comfort of the classic dish. With its cheesy goodness and flavorful toppings, this recipe is not just another low-carb dish; it’s an indulgent meal that can bring the family together around the dinner table. Don’t hesitate to try out variations based on your preferences—it’s all about making it your own! We encourage YOU to share your experiences, variations, or any questions in the comments below. Give this delightful casserole a try, and we promise you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Zucchini Pizza Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Zucchini Pizza Casserole takes the beloved flavors of pizza and gives them a nutritious twist while keeping all the comfort of the classic dish.
Ingredients
- 3 cups shredded zucchini
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1½ cups pizza sauce
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini: Start by shredding the zucchini and then mixing it with salt in a large bowl. Allow this mixture to rest for about ten minutes; this step helps draw out excess moisture, crucial for achieving a sturdy crust. After the waiting period, use a cheesecloth or a towel to squeeze out as much moisture as you can.
- Combine the Crust Mixture: Once the zucchini is well-drained, add in the eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir this mixture until it’s thoroughly combined, forming a cohesive crust mix.
- Bake the Zucchini Base: Grease your baking dish with a bit of oil or non-stick spray, then carefully press your zucchini mixture into the bottom of the dish. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the crust is set and lightly golden.
- Cook the Beef Mixture: While the zucchini is baking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Next, stir in pizza sauce, bell pepper, sliced mushrooms, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper. Allow this mixture to simmer for another five minutes.
- Assemble and Bake the Casserole: Once the zucchini crust is ready, spread the beef mixture evenly over the top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and all of the cheddar cheese on top. Return the baking dish to the oven, allowing it to bake for an additional 20 minutes.
Notes
For a portable dish, consider making this casserole ahead of time and reheating it for a quick meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 25 g