Zucchini Pizza Casserole Recipe

This low-carb, keto-friendly zucchini pizza casserole is a perfect dinner option for pizza lovers who want a lighter, healthier twist. Packed with cheese, meat, and all your favorite pizza flavors!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the Zucchini Crust:

  • 4 cups shredded zucchini (about 2-3 medium zucchinis)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt

For the Toppings:

  • 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce (sugar-free for keto)
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ pound cooked ground beef, sausage, or pepperoni slices (optional)
  • ½ cup sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini Crust

  1. Shred the zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded zucchini, eggs, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

  1. Press the zucchini mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
  2. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is set and lightly golden.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

  1. Spread the marinara or pizza sauce evenly over the baked zucchini crust.
  2. Sprinkle half the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the sauce.
  3. Add your desired toppings, such as cooked ground beef, sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives.
  4. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the toppings.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

  1. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. For a crispy top, broil on high for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
  2. Garnish with Italian seasoning or fresh basil for extra flavor, if desired.

Tips for Success:

  • Removing Moisture: Make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible from the zucchini to prevent a soggy crust.
  • Custom Toppings: Add your favorite pizza toppings like jalapeños, spinach, or bacon to make it your own.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

This Zucchini Pizza Casserole is a delicious and versatile dish that satisfies your pizza cravings while keeping it healthy and low-carb. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep! 🍕🥒🧀