Zucchini Pizza Casserole
A cheesy, low-carb casserole that combines all the flavors of pizza with fresh zucchini. It’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
4 medium zucchini, sliced into ¼-inch (6 mm) rounds
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
500 g (1 lb) lean ground beef or Italian sausage
2 cups (480 ml) pizza sauce or marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
20–25 pepperoni slices (optional)
½ cup sliced black olives (optional)
½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
Chopped fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish.
Place the sliced zucchini in a colander, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let sit for 15–20 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the onion until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Arrange half of the zucchini slices in the baking dish. Spread half of the meat sauce over the zucchini and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella.
Repeat the layers with the remaining zucchini, meat sauce, and mozzarella.
Top with the Parmesan cheese, pepperoni, olives, and mushrooms if using.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
Garlic bread
A crisp green salad
Steamed vegetables
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
