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Cheesy Zucchini Pizza Casserole

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Craving pizza? Dive into our Cheesy Zucchini Pizza Casserole! Tender, pre-salted zucchini forms the crust, layered with rich sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Recipe & nutrition details included.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium zucchini, about 2 pounds total
  • 1.5 cups (15 oz) prepared pizza sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup sliced mini turkey pepperoni (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash and trim the zucchini, then slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Lay the zucchini slices on paper towels, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels.
  2. Step 2: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil. Spread about half (approximately 3/4 cup) of the pizza sauce evenly over the bottom of the prepared dish.
  3. Step 3: Arrange about half of the dried zucchini slices in a single layer over the sauce. Sprinkle with half of the Italian seasoning and half of the garlic powder. Top with half of the shredded mozzarella, half of the grated Parmesan, and half of the mini beef pepperoni slices (if using).
  4. Step 4: Repeat the layering process: spread the remaining pizza sauce, then arrange the remaining zucchini slices, sprinkle with the rest of the Italian seasoning and garlic powder, and finally top with the remaining mozzarella, Parmesan, and beef pepperoni.
  5. Step 5: Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown, and the zucchini is tender. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Store any delicious leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making for a quick and satisfying meal later.
  • To reheat, gently warm individual servings in the microwave, or cover and bake the casserole at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through and bubbly again.
  • Serve this hearty Cheesy Zucchini Pizza Casserole with a simple, crisp green salad and a light vinaigrette to complement its rich flavors beautifully.
  • A chef's secret: Thoroughly salting and patting dry your zucchini is key to preventing a watery casserole, ensuring every bite is packed with pure flavor, not excess moisture.

Nutrition