Zucchini Pizza Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together fresh zucchini, gooey melted cheese, and classic pizza flavors like tomato sauce and pepperoni. It’s like a fun twist on traditional pizza, baked into a warm, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for any night of the week. The zucchini slices add a nice freshness and a little crunch that balances out all the cheesy goodness.
I love making this casserole when I want something lighter but still satisfying. Using zucchini instead of dough makes it feel a bit healthier, and it’s a great way to sneak some veggies into the meal without anyone noticing. I often add a sprinkle of extra oregano and garlic to give it that classic pizza vibe, and a handful of fresh basil right before serving always lifts the flavors.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this casserole is fresh out of the oven with a simple side salad and some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. It’s a great dish to share with family or friends because it tastes like a fun party on a plate but is so easy to throw together. Plus, leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a dish I’m happy to make again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Thin slices work best to cook evenly and soak up flavors. If you want, yellow squash can be swapped in for a slightly sweeter taste.
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Both add savory flavor. For a leaner option, try ground turkey or skip meat entirely for a vegetarian twist. Add mushrooms or beans instead.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred pizza sauce or make a quick homemade tomato sauce. For a low-sodium option, choose a sauce with less salt or use fresh tomatoes.
Cheeses: Mozzarella melts beautifully and cheddar adds some sharpness. You can swap cheddar for provolone or fontina if preferred. For dairy-free, use vegan cheese blends that melt well.
How Do You Get Zucchini Layers That Don’t Turn Soggy?
Water content in zucchini can make casseroles watery. To prevent this:
- Slice zucchini thinly and sprinkle with salt. Let sit 10 minutes, then pat dry to remove excess moisture.
- Use fresh zucchini, as older ones tend to be more watery.
- Avoid crowding the slices in layers; give a little space so heat circulates evenly.
These steps help keep the casserole firm with a nice texture rather than soggy or mushy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch casserole dish – perfect size for layering and baking the casserole evenly.
- Large skillet – you’ll brown the meat and simmer the sauce here.
- Sharp knife – essential for slicing zucchini thinly and evenly.
- Cutting board – gives you a safe, stable surface to slice vegetables.
- Aluminum foil – to cover the casserole while baking and keep it moist.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground turkey or chicken for beef for a lighter protein option that still tastes great.
- Mix in sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies and a mild sweetness.
- Use Italian or pepperoni sausage instead of plain sausage for a spicier, more classic pizza flavor.
- Top with fresh basil or sprinkle red pepper flakes before serving to add fresh herbiness or a little heat.
Zucchini Pizza Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
- Olive oil for sautéing
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing this zucchini pizza casserole takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time, including slicing and cooking the meat with sauce. Bake time is roughly 35-40 minutes. All together, plan for around 60 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Cook the Meat:
Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, warm a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
Stir in the marinara or pizza sauce along with garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors, then take the pan off the heat.
3. Assemble the Layers:
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Lay a layer of zucchini slices on the bottom. Spread some of the meat sauce over the zucchini, then sprinkle a mixture of mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top. Repeat these layers until you use all the ingredients, ending with a cheese layer on top.
4. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
5. Rest and Serve:
Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking to settle. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a fresh finish. Serve warm as a tasty and comforting meal.
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Casserole?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture. Pat the slices dry with paper towels to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the meat and add extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. Use your favorite marinara sauce and cheese to keep it delicious.
