Zucchini Pizza Casserole Low Carb

Name: Zucchini Pizza Casserole Low Carb
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis, sliced; 1 pound ground Italian sausage; 1 cup marinara sauce (sugar-free); 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni (optional)

Highlighted under: Balanced Eating Ideas

Enjoy a delicious, low-carb twist on a classic pizza with this Zucchini Pizza Casserole. Perfect for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake while still satisfying their pizza cravings.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-24T00:58:28.457Z

This Zucchini Pizza Casserole combines the flavors of your favorite pizza with the healthy twist of zucchini, making it a delightful option for pizza lovers following a low-carb diet. The layers of cheese, sausage, and veggies create a hearty dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich flavors reminiscent of traditional pizza
Low-carb and keto-friendly for guilt-free indulgence
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep

      

A Healthy Pizza Alternative

If you're on a low-carb or ketogenic diet, finding satisfying meal options can sometimes feel challenging. This Zucchini Pizza Casserole brilliantly fills the gap, offering all the delicious flavors of pizza without the heavy carb load. By substituting traditional pizza crust with zucchini, you not only cut back on carbs but also incorporate nutritious vegetables into your meal. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor, making it a delightful choice for both dieters and pizza lovers alike.

Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that absorbs flavors beautifully, making it an ideal base for this casserole. When cooked, it becomes tender yet maintains a delightful texture, enhancing the overall eating experience. This dish allows you to enjoy your favorite pizza toppings, from savory Italian sausage to gooey mozzarella, all while keeping your health goals in check.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the standout features of this Zucchini Pizza Casserole is its suitability for meal prep. Whether you're looking to plan meals for the week or need a quick dinner option for busy nights, this casserole can be your go-to solution. It stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated easily, making it convenient for lunch or dinner. Simply slice and serve, and you have a hearty meal ready in minutes.

Additionally, this dish can be customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different toppings or spices to create variations that excite your taste buds. By making a large batch, you can enjoy it throughout the week, allowing for diverse meals without the repetitive cooking hassle.

Family-Friendly Recipe

Getting kids to eat their vegetables can often be a struggle, but this Zucchini Pizza Casserole is a game-changer. Its cheesy, savory flavor profile is reminiscent of traditional pizza, making it appealing to even the pickiest of eaters. When plated, it looks delicious and inviting, encouraging everyone at the table to dig in without hesitation.

You can also involve your children in the cooking process, allowing them to help layer the ingredients or choose their favorite toppings. This not only makes for a fun family activity but also teaches them about healthy cooking habits. By integrating vegetables into a dish they already love, you're instilling a sense of excitement about trying new flavors and textures.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

4 medium zucchinis, sliced
1 pound ground Italian sausage
1 cup marinara sauce (sugar-free)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni (optional)

Mix ingredients well before baking for the best flavor.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Zucchini

In a large skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease and add the sliced zucchini.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the zucchini is slightly tender.

Layer the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the zucchini mixture, followed by half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

Add Toppings

Top with pepperoni slices if desired.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

For the best flavor, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Storage Tips

To store leftover Zucchini Pizza Casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen casserole, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven or microwave. This makes for an easy, comforting meal that feels freshly made, even days or weeks later.

Variations to Try

This Zucchini Pizza Casserole is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and load up on your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives. You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

If you’re looking to increase the protein content, consider adding cooked chicken or turkey. These substitutions not only diversify the flavors but also keep the dish exciting, ensuring you won't tire of this healthy pizza alternative anytime soon.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this Zucchini Pizza Casserole alongside a fresh salad can elevate your meal, adding a refreshing crunch that complements the hearty casserole. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette works beautifully, balancing the richness of the cheese and sausage.

For those who enjoy dipping, consider providing a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for drizzling or dunking. This enhances the flavor experience while keeping the dish fun and interactive, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the sausage.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator and bake as directed.