Zucchini Pizza Casserole

A cheesy, saucy, low-carb casserole that gives you all the comforting flavors of pizza without the traditional crust. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner!

Ingredients

For the Zucchini Base:

• 4 medium zucchini, sliced into thin rounds or half-moons
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Pizza Layer:

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup pizza or marinara sauce
• 1 cup cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or turkey pepperoni
• ½ small onion, finely diced
• ½ cup sliced mushrooms
• ½ cup sliced bell pepper
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes, optional

Optional Toppings:

• Extra mozzarella
• Turkey or regular pepperoni
• Fresh basil
• Sliced olives
• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Prepare the zucchini
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place sliced zucchini in a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.

2. Roast the zucchini
Spread zucchini on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Toss with olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Roast for 12–15 minutes, until slightly softened. This helps prevent the casserole from becoming watery.

3. Prepare the toppings
While the zucchini roasts, cook the ground beef, sausage, or turkey if using. Drain excess grease. Sauté the onion, mushrooms, and bell pepper for 4–5 minutes until softened.

4. Assemble
Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the bottom.

Add half of the roasted zucchini, followed by half of the meat and vegetables. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.

Repeat with the remaining zucchini, toppings, sauce, and cheese. Finish with a generous layer of mozzarella.

5. Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

For an extra crispy top, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully.

6. Rest and serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Quick Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour
• Servings: 6
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Best For: Low-carb dinner, family meal prep

Nut Information

• Contains tree nuts: No, when prepared with the ingredients listed.
• Contains peanuts: No.
• Nut-free: Yes, naturally.
• Always check labels on pizza sauce, marinara sauce, Parmesan, mozzarella, and processed toppings if cooking for someone with a serious nut allergy, because packaged products can have cross-contact warnings.

Approximate Nutrition

Per serving, depending on the meat and cheese used:

• Calories: 300–360
• Protein: 22–28 g
• Carbohydrates: 10–14 g
• Fiber: 3–4 g
• Net Carbs: 7–11 g
• Fat: 18–24 g

Recipe Q&A

Q: How do I keep zucchini pizza casserole from getting watery?
A: Salt the zucchini, let it sit for 10 minutes, pat it very dry, and roast it before assembling the casserole.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Absolutely. Leave out the meat and add extra mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, olives, or other favorite vegetables.

Q: Can I use ground chicken?
A: Yes. Ground chicken or turkey works very well for a lighter, high-protein version.

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes, although zucchini may become softer after freezing and thawing. Cool completely, portion, and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2–3 months.

Q: Can I make this without meat?
A: Yes. Use mushrooms, spinach, peppers, onions, and olives for a delicious vegetarian version.

Q: Is this keto-friendly?
A: It can fit a keto-style meal depending on the sauce and toppings you choose. Use a low-sugar pizza sauce and keep higher-carb vegetables in moderate amounts.

Q: What cheese can I use instead of mozzarella?
A: Provolone, Monterey Jack, cheddar, or an Italian cheese blend can be used.

Q: What should I serve with it?
A: A simple green salad, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic sautéed spinach makes a great side.