Zucchini Pizza Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s sure to please the whole family, you’ve come to the right place! This Zucchini Pizza Casserole has quickly become a favorite in my home. It’s packed with flavors from fresh veggies, seasoned beef, and melted cheese, making it a delightful and hearty meal. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where you want something easy yet satisfying.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or just want a tasty option that feels indulgent but is still low-carb, this casserole ticks all the boxes. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this delicious Zucchini Pizza Casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this casserole in the oven in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy goodness and familiar pizza flavors.
• Make-ahead convenience: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for quick meals during the week.
• Deliciously healthy: It’s loaded with veggies and lean protein, making it a nutritious choice without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this Zucchini Pizza Casserole is a breeze! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the 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

One of the best things about this Zucchini Pizza Casserole is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or use up what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in your favorite vegetables like spinach or olives for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like a kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the meat mixture.
• Cheese alternatives: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or gouda for unique flavor twists.

How to Make Zucchini Pizza Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the shredded zucchini with salt. Letting it sit for 10 minutes helps draw out excess moisture. This step is crucial because too much moisture can make your crust soggy!

Step 2: Squeeze Out Excess Moisture

After letting the zucchini rest, use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. The drier your zucchini is, the better your crust will hold together.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients for the Crust

In the same bowl with your drained zucchini, mix in eggs, Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. This will create a flavorful base for your casserole that mimics traditional pizza crust.

Step 4: Form and Bake the Crust

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and press your zucchini mixture evenly into the bottom. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until set and lightly browned. This gives it that nice crusty texture we all love!

Step 5: Cook the Beef Mixture

While your crust bakes, brown ground beef with chopped onion over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat before adding pizza sauce, green bell pepper, mushrooms, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes while stirring occasionally to blend those delicious flavors.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Once your crust is ready, spread that savory beef mixture evenly over it. Top everything off with remaining mozzarella cheese and all of the cheddar cheese—because who doesn’t love extra cheese?

Step 7: Bake Until Bubbly

Return your casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes until everything is melted and bubbly. The aroma will fill your kitchen and make everyone eager to dig in!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm and watch as everyone enjoys this hearty meal together!

Enjoy sharing this delightful Zucchini Pizza Casserole with family and friends—it’s bound to become a cherished favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Zucchini Pizza Casserole

Making the perfect Zucchini Pizza Casserole can be a delightful experience with just a few handy tips!

• Squeeze out excess moisture: After salting the zucchini, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step prevents a soggy crust and ensures that your casserole has the right texture.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to customize your casserole with different toppings! Adding olives, pepperoni alternatives, or even spinach can take your dish to the next level, giving you endless flavor combinations.
• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking makes it easier to slice and serve. This will help maintain its shape and give you clean pieces for serving.
• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and quality cheeses. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also add nutritional value to your meal.
• Meal prep and store leftovers: This casserole is perfect for meal prepping! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy another slice!

How to Serve Zucchini Pizza Casserole

Serving your Zucchini Pizza Casserole is all about creating an inviting atmosphere that highlights its deliciousness! Here are some simple yet effective ways to present this hearty dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a burst of color and enhances the Italian flavors of your casserole.
• Chopped parsley: This vibrant herb not only looks great but also provides a fresh flavor contrast that complements the rich cheese and beef.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad: A light salad with a variety of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole perfectly.
• Garlic breadsticks: These crispy treats are great for dipping into any extra pizza sauce on your plate!
• Steamed broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and extra vitamins alongside your main dish.
• Cauliflower rice: For an additional low-carb option, serve cauliflower rice seasoned with herbs as a side. It’s light and pairs well with the flavors of the casserole.

With these serving suggestions, your Zucchini Pizza Casserole will not only taste wonderful but look appealing too! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Zucchini Pizza Casserole is perfect for meal prep, making it a great option for busy weeknights or a satisfying lunch. You can prepare it in advance and store it to enjoy later!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cut the cooled casserole into serving sizes.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight 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 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave on medium power for about 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious dish!

Can I make Zucchini Pizza Casserole without ground beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, or even use plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian option.

How do I store leftover Zucchini Pizza Casserole?

Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I add other vegetables to Zucchini Pizza Casserole?

Yes! Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite veggies like spinach, zucchini blossoms, or even olives to enhance the flavor and texture.

Is Zucchini Pizza Casserole healthy?

Indeed! This recipe is low-carb and packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables, making it a healthy choice for dinner.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Zucchini Pizza Casserole as much as I do! It’s not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, this recipe is bound to bring joy to your table. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share how yours turned out!