Description
This Zucchini Pizza Casserole is a delicious and healthy twist on traditional pizza. It’s perfect for those looking to reduce carbs or sneak in more vegetables. This casserole combines the fresh flavors of zucchini with savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s easy to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup marinara sauce (choose your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Pepperoni slices, other cheese blends, vegetables like bell peppers or onions
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it or spraying it with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 3: While the beef is browning, prepare the zucchini. Slice the zucchinis into approximately ¼-inch thick rounds. To remove excess moisture (which helps prevent a soggy casserole), you can lightly salt the zucchini slices and let them sit in a colander for about 15-20 minutes. Then, pat them dry with paper towels.
Step 4: In the skillet with the cooked ground beef, add the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 5: Begin layering the casserole. Place a layer of zucchini slices on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, overlapping them slightly.
Step 6: Spread half of the ground beef mixture evenly over the zucchini layer.
Step 7: Add another layer of zucchini slices, again overlapping them.
Step 8: Spread the remaining ground beef mixture over the second zucchini layer.
Step 9: Top the casserole evenly with the shredded mozzarella cheese. If desired, add pepperoni slices or other toppings at this point.
Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
Step 11: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it to set slightly and makes it easier to cut.
Why you’ll love this recipe
This Zucchini Pizza Casserole is loved for several reasons:
- Healthy and Low-Carb: It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of pizza without all the carbs from a traditional crust.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite pizza toppings.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this tasty and satisfying casserole.
- Great Way to Use Zucchini: If you have an abundance of zucchini from your garden, this is a perfect way to use it up!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main course with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
- Pair with garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for a more indulgent meal.
- Top with a dollop of ricotta cheese or a sprinkle of fresh basil after baking.
Tips:
- Preventing a Soggy Casserole: Salting the zucchini and patting it dry is crucial to removing excess moisture. You can also lightly sauté the zucchini before layering it in the casserole.
- Cheese Variations: Use a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheese for a more complex flavor.
- Adding Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or olives to the ground beef mixture.
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture for a little heat.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information: (per serving, approximate)
Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 500mg
Conclusion
Zucchini Pizza Casserole is a delightful and nutritious dish that brings together the best of pizza flavors in a healthy, easy-to-make format. Whether you’re looking to reduce carbs, increase your veggie intake, or simply enjoy a delicious meal, this casserole is a winner. Its versatility allows for endless customization, making it a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
- Q: Can I make this casserole vegetarian? A: Yes, you can easily make this casserole vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or using sautéed mushrooms and other vegetables.
- Q: Can I use different vegetables in this casserole? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach to the ground beef mixture or layered in with the zucchini.
- Q: How do I prevent the casserole from being too watery? A: The key to preventing a watery casserole is to remove excess moisture from the zucchini. Salting the zucchini slices and letting them sit in a colander for about 15-20 minutes, then patting them dry with paper towels, works wonders.
- Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake it, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
