Description
A nutritious twist on classic pizza, this zucchini pizza casserole combines ground beef, fragrant spices, and gooey cheese for a delightful dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups shredded zucchini (Make sure to salt and drain to prevent sogginess.)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (Draws excess moisture from zucchini.)
- 2 large eggs (Binds the crust and adds richness.)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (Enhances flavor and provides structure.)
- 1 pound ground beef (Offers a hearty, savory filling.)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (Adds sweetness and aromatic depth.)
- 2 cups pizza sauce (Brings brightness and flavor.)
- 1 green bell pepper chopped (Contributes crunchy texture.)
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (Adds earthy flavor.)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (Traditional pizza herb.)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (Offers savory depth.)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (Adds subtle heat.)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (Melts into a gooey topping.)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Adds a sharp, tangy bite.)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Salt the shredded zucchini with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, letting it sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Squeeze the zucchini to eliminate excess liquid, then transfer it to a large bowl.
- Add eggs, Parmesan cheese, and mix well.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add onions, green bell peppers, and mushrooms. Cook until the vegetables soften.
- Stir in the pizza sauce, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Combine the beef mixture with the zucchini mixture in the large bowl, stirring until evenly combined.
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella and cheddar cheese, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole has set.
- Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Experiment with different cheese combinations or for a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or crumbled tofu.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: zucchini casserole, pizza casserole, healthy dinner, comfort food