Zucchini Pizza Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together fresh zucchini, gooey melted cheese, tangy tomato sauce, and all your favorite pizza flavors in one hearty bake. It’s like enjoying a pizza night without the crust, making it a tasty way to sneak in some veggies while still feeling like you’re indulging in something special.
I love making this casserole because it’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. What’s great about it is how the zucchini slices soak up the flavors of the sauce and spices, then get topped with plenty of cheese that melts and bubbles on top. I usually throw in some pepperoni or sausage to make it even more filling, but it’s just as good as a vegetarian meal, too.
Whenever I serve this, I like to pair it with a simple green salad or a side of garlic bread to round out the meal. It’s perfect for weeknights or weekend dinners when you want something warm, cheesy, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fun way to switch things up when you’re in the mood for pizza but want a lighter twist.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Thin slices add a fresh, mild flavor and make a great low-carb pizza crust alternative. If zucchini is watery, pat slices dry to avoid soggy casserole.
Ground Beef: I like ground beef for rich flavor, but ground turkey or chicken work well too for a leaner option.
Pizza Sauce: A good-quality jarred sauce saves time. You can swap for marinara or even homemade tomato sauce seasoned with Italian herbs.
Cheese: Mozzarella is key for meltiness; cheddar adds a nice sharpness. Parmesan on top gives a golden, savory crust. Feel free to mix in provolone or fontina if you like.
How Do You Avoid a Watery Zucchini Pizza Casserole?
Zucchini releases water when cooked, which can make the casserole runny. Here’s how to keep it firm and tasty:
- Slice zucchini thin and evenly for consistent cooking.
- Pat zucchini slices dry with paper towels before layering.
- Salt the slices lightly and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry again.
- Bake covered first to let flavors blend, then uncovered to brown the cheese and evaporate moisture.
Following these steps helps keep your casserole thick and delicious without extra water pooling at the bottom.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking the ground meat and simmering the sauce in one pan.
- Sharp knife – helps you slice zucchini thinly and evenly for better layering.
- Cutting board – a sturdy surface makes slicing veggies safer and easier.
- 9×13-inch casserole dish – roomy enough for layering all ingredients and baking evenly.
- Aluminum foil – covers the casserole during baking to keep moisture in.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – great for stirring the sauce and spreading layers smoothly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for Italian sausage for a spicier, more flavorful sauce.
- Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies and a nice texture contrast.
- Use part mozzarella and part provolone cheese for a richer, creamier melt.
- For a vegetarian option, skip the meat and add cooked lentils or chopped eggplant instead.
How to Make Zucchini Pizza Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Veggies & Meat:
- 4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced lengthwise
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning & Sauces:
- 1 (24 oz) jar pizza sauce
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheeses:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley or basil
Time Needed:
You’ll spend about 15 minutes prepping — browning the meat, chopping, and slicing zucchini — plus 35-40 minutes baking. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. So plan on around 1 hour from start to done.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat and Sauce:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and crumbly. Drain any extra fat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until veggies are soft, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the pizza sauce along with basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes so all the flavors come together nicely.
2. Prepare Zucchini Slices:
While the sauce is simmering, thinly slice your zucchinis lengthwise. If the slices seem watery, gently pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent sogginess in your casserole.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish lightly. Spread a spoonful of the meat sauce on the bottom to get started. Layer zucchini slices evenly over the sauce. Then spread another layer of meat sauce on top, followed by a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Repeat these zucchini, sauce, and cheese layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a nice cheesy top. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over everything for a savory finish.
4. Bake and Serve:
Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and beautifully golden brown. Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you want a touch of freshness.
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Casserole?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before layering to avoid a soggy casserole.
Can I Make Zucchini Pizza Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Use Other Meats or Make It Vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap ground beef for ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even skip the meat and add cooked lentils or extra veggies for a vegetarian twist.
