Zucchini Pizza Casserole: Low-Carb, Cheesy, and Delicious

Zucchini Pizza Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines the flavors of classic pizza with the freshness of zucchini. This low-carb casserole layers tender, shredded zucchini with a savory meat sauce, melted cheeses, and aromatic spices, creating a dish that’s hearty, cheesy, and full of flavor. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner, meal prep option, or even a creative way to sneak more vegetables into your meals without sacrificing taste.

With its combination of ground beef, vegetables, pizza sauce, and a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan, every bite delivers the familiar satisfaction of pizza in casserole form. This article will guide you through ingredients, preparation steps, tips for the perfect bake, variations, serving suggestions, storage advice, nutritional insights, and frequently asked questions.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to this casserole is balancing moisture and flavor. Shredded zucchini is salted and drained to remove excess water, preventing a soggy casserole. Ground beef and sautéed vegetables add depth, while the combination of cheeses creates a creamy, melty top. Pizza sauce and Italian spices give the dish its familiar pizza flavor, making it appealing to both adults and kids. Baking everything together allows the flavors to meld while keeping the zucchini tender yet structured.

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded zucchini
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 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

Ingredient Breakdown

Shredded zucchini provides moisture, fiber, and a low-carb base for the casserole. Eggs and Parmesan cheese act as binders, holding the zucchini together. Mozzarella and cheddar cheese provide creaminess and a cheesy, melty texture. Ground beef adds protein and richness, while onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms contribute sweetness, texture, and flavor. Pizza sauce and spices deliver the classic pizza taste, making the casserole comforting and familiar.

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
Place shredded zucchini in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This step prevents the casserole from becoming watery.

Step 2: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 3: Cook the Beef and Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add chopped onion, green bell pepper, and mushrooms, and sauté for 5–6 minutes until vegetables are softened. Drain excess fat. Stir in pizza sauce, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 4: Prepare Zucchini Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the drained zucchini, eggs, Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, and cheddar cheese. Mix until evenly combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread half of the zucchini mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer the beef and vegetable mixture on top. Spread the remaining zucchini mixture over the beef layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella on top.

Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Step 7: Serve
Cut into squares and serve warm. Optional garnishes include fresh basil, red pepper flakes, or extra Parmesan cheese.

Tips for Perfect Casserole

• Make sure to remove excess moisture from zucchini to avoid a soggy casserole.
• Use a mix of cheeses for maximum flavor and gooey texture.
• Allow the casserole to cool slightly before cutting to help it set.
• Customize vegetables based on preference or seasonal availability.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables like zucchini slices, spinach, or eggplant.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Low-Fat: Use lean ground turkey and reduced-fat cheeses.
• Extra Cheesy: Add more mozzarella or a layer of ricotta cheese for creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Pair with garlic bread or a light soup for a cozy dinner.
• Great for meal prep; enjoy as a warm dinner or packed lunch.

Storage and Meal Prep

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven until warm.
• This casserole can be prepared in advance and baked when ready to serve.

Nutritional Overview

• Low-carb and packed with vegetables
• High in protein from ground beef and cheese
• Contains calcium and vitamins from cheese and vegetables
• Easily adaptable for lower-fat or vegetarian diets

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I freeze it?
Yes, cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

3. Can I use pre-shredded zucchini?
Yes, but ensure you remove excess moisture to prevent sogginess.

4. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, substitute ground beef with cooked lentils, plant-based crumbles, or extra vegetables.

5. Can I use other cheeses?
Yes, mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack all work well.

6. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger baking dish and adjust baking time accordingly.

Print

Zucchini Pizza Casserole is a cheesy, comforting, and nutritious dish that delivers all the flavors of pizza in a healthier, low-carb format. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy weeknights, this casserole is sure to become a go-to favorite