Zucchini Pizza Casserole

Zucchini Pizza Casserole

Author: Chef Elsa Prep Time: 30 min
Cook Time: 35 min Total Time: 65 min
Yield: 6 servings Category: easy zucchini recipes Cuisine: Italian Diet: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

Description

Description A cozy, light twist on classic pizza flavors baked into a hearty casserole with a grated-zucchini crust and savory meat-and-vegetable pizza sauce.

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 (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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Instructions

  1. Prepare the zucchini: Place shredded zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 30 minutes, then squeeze out excess liquid.
  2. Mix the base: Combine drained zucchini with eggs and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well incorporated.
  3. Preheat oven and prepare baking dish: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  4. Cook the meat and aromatics: Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then add onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook for 5-7 minutes.
  5. Make the sauce: Stir in pizza sauce, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
  6. Form the zucchini base: Press the zucchini mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  7. Layer the casserole: Layer half of the meat sauce, then sprinkle with mozzarella and cheddar. Repeat with remaining sauce and cheeses.
  8. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbling and cheese is golden brown.
  9. Rest and serve: Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  1. Notes
  2. Make ahead options available; can refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.