Zucchini Pizza Casserole: The Ultimate Healthy Pizza Recipe

Name: Zucchini Pizza Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 4 cup shredded zucchini (drained frozen zucchini works well); 2 large eggs; 0.25 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 0.5 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 32 ounces meaty spaghetti sauce; 2 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese; 4 ounces pepperoni; 0 Optional toppings: Green pepper, Onions, Mushrooms

Introduction to Zucchini Pizza Casserole

Are you looking for a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional pizza? Look no further than this Zucchini Pizza Casserole! This unique dish combines all the flavors of your favorite pizza with the added benefits of nutritious zucchini. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even as a meal prep option for the week ahead. With its cheesy goodness and savory toppings, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.

A Personal Story Behind My Zucchini Pizza Casserole Journey

Growing up, my family had a tradition of making homemade pizza every Friday night. It was a time for us to bond, share laughter, and enjoy delicious food together. As I grew older and became more health-conscious, I wanted to recreate that joyful experience while making it healthier. Thus, the Zucchini Pizza Casserole was born! This dish has become a staple in my household, bringing back those fond memories while allowing us to enjoy a guilt-free meal.

What Makes This Zucchini Pizza Casserole Recipe Special?

This Zucchini Pizza Casserole is not just another pizza recipe; it’s a wholesome dish that showcases the versatility of zucchini. By using shredded zucchini as the base instead of traditional pizza dough, this recipe significantly lowers the carb count while adding essential nutrients. The combination of eggs, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese creates a delicious crust that holds everything together. Plus, the optional toppings like green peppers, onions, and mushrooms allow you to customize it to your liking. It’s comfort food that won’t weigh you down!

The Full Zucchini Pizza Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

4 cups shredded zucchini (drained frozen zucchini works well)
2 large eggs
1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
32 ounces meaty spaghetti sauce
2 cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
4 ounces pepperoni
Optional toppings: Green pepper, Onions, Mushrooms

Instructions

Prepare the zucchini: If using frozen zucchini, ensure it’s well drained. If using fresh zucchini, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt, stir, and let it sit in a colander for 20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. After draining, use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out any remaining liquid.
Make the casserole: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Spray a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray. In a mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, eggs, Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, salt, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until combined.

Press the zucchini mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly browned.
Assemble the casserole: Spread the meaty spaghetti sauce evenly over the baked crust. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of mozzarella cheese over the sauce, then top with sliced pepperoni.

Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted. For a slightly browned top, you can broil for 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Allow the casserole to rest for 3 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Zucchini Pizza Casserole!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Zucchini Pizza Casserole

This Zucchini Pizza Casserole is incredibly versatile. You can serve it with a side salad for a complete meal or pair it with garlic bread for a comforting dinner experience. Feel free to get creative with your toppings – try adding chopped green peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or feta, to give it a unique twist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Zucchini Pizza Casserole

Can I use frozen zucchini?

Yes, frozen zucchini works well as long as it is thoroughly drained of excess liquid before using.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour or gluten-containing ingredients.

Is this casserole healthy?

Yes, this casserole is a healthier alternative to traditional pizza, packed with vegetables and lower in carbohydrates.