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
Scale
- 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