Description
This Zucchini Pizza Casserole is a delicious, low-carb twist on classic pizza, combining tender zucchini slices layered with seasoned ground turkey or beef, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. Baked to bubbly perfection, it makes a perfect family-friendly dinner that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
Meat
- 1 lb ground turkey or beef
Other Ingredients
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Nonstick cooking spray (for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking during baking.
- Cook Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey or beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole lean. Stir in the Italian seasoning to flavor the meat.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the meat and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and meld flavors with the meat.
- Assemble Layers: Arrange half of the zucchini slices evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the cooked meat and sautéed vegetables on top, followed by half of the marinara sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining zucchini, meat mixture, and sauce.
- Add Cheese and Cover: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top layer. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep moisture in during initial baking.
- Bake: Bake the casserole covered for 25 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is golden brown, bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with cooked lentils or a meat substitute.
- Use low-fat mozzarella cheese to reduce fat content.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow it to set for easier serving.
- Feel free to add extra herbs like basil or oregano for enhanced flavor.
- This casserole can be made ahead and reheated in the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
