Zucchini Pizza Casserole is a fun twist on traditional pizza that brings together tender zucchini slices, gooey melted cheese, and all the classic pizza flavors you love like marinara sauce and pepperoni. It’s like your favorite pizza, but baked in a cozy casserole form, which makes it super easy to serve and share. The zucchini adds a fresh, light texture that balances out the rich, cheesy goodness perfectly.
I love making this casserole when I want something comforting but a little healthier than regular pizza. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without anyone feeling like they’re missing out. Plus, it’s super simple to throw together — just layer your zucchini, sauce, cheese, and toppings, then pop it in the oven and let it work its magic. Whenever I make this, I find myself going back for seconds because it hits that perfect mix of cheesy and fresh.
One of my favorite ways to serve this is with a fresh green salad on the side and a sprinkle of extra cheese on top right before baking for a golden finish. The casserole leftovers are great, too — they reheat well and still keep that pizza vibe intact. Zucchini Pizza Casserole is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and I’m always excited to share it with family and friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star veggie, giving a fresh, tender bite. If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash works well. To avoid sogginess, sauté the zucchini briefly to soften and release excess moisture.
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for a balance of flavor and fewer fats. You can swap for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option or go vegetarian with cooked lentils or crumbled firm tofu.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade marinara. If you prefer, pizza sauce can add an extra cheesy, herb flavor. For a lower-sodium version, look for no-salt-added sauces or make your own.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds creamy richness and helps bind the casserole. Cottage cheese can be a lighter substitute but may change the texture slightly. For dairy-free, try a soft tofu blend.
Mozzarella & Parmesan Cheese: These cheeses create that classic melty, golden topping. Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, while Parmesan adds a sharp bite. For a twist, try a mix of mozzarella and provolone or Pecorino Romano.
How Do You Layer the Casserole for the Best Texture and Flavor?
Layering is key to blending the zucchini, meat sauce, and cheeses so every bite has great flavor and texture.
- Sauté Zucchini First: Cook the zucchini to soften it and cut down on water, so the casserole isn’t soggy.
- Layer Evenly: Spread zucchini in an even layer first, then add the meat sauce. This keeps moisture balanced and flavors distinct.
- Dollop Ricotta: Scoop ricotta on top of the meat sauce in small dollops, then gently spread for creamy pockets without mixing it all.
- Repeat Layers: Adding a second layer builds flavor depth and gives the dish a nice structure.
- Top with Cheese: Spread mozzarella and Parmesan on top to create a golden, bubbly crust when baked.
Following these steps helps maintain the casserole’s texture – tender zucchini, flavorful meat, creamy ricotta, and melty cheese – for a tasty, hearty dish every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef and simmering the sauce all in one pan.
- Medium skillet – use this to sauté the zucchini quickly without making it soggy.
- Mixing bowl – great for combining the ricotta and Parmesan cheese smoothly.
- Casserole dish (8×8 or similar) – holds all the layers nicely and bakes evenly.
- Spoon or spatula – handy for spreading layers and mixing ingredients gently.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for Italian sausage to add a spicier, richer flavor.
- Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers with the zucchini for extra veggies and texture.
- Use shredded cheddar or fontina cheese along with mozzarella for a creamier, nuttier taste.
- Stir in red pepper flakes or chopped fresh basil in the sauce for a little heat and freshness.
How to Make Zucchini Pizza Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 jar (about 24 oz) marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Garnish:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Olive oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes for prep, including cooking the beef and sautéing the zucchini. Baking the casserole will take an additional 25-30 minutes. Allow about 5 minutes to cool before serving. Overall, you’re looking at roughly 45 minutes from start to table.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef and Sauce:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce and let everything simmer gently for about 5 minutes.
2. Sauté the Zucchini:
In another skillet, sauté the diced zucchini with a bit of olive oil over medium heat for 3-4 minutes. Cook until slightly tender but still firm. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
3. Prepare Cheese Mixture and Assemble:
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with half of the Parmesan until smooth. Grease your casserole dish lightly with olive oil. Spread half of the sautéed zucchini on the bottom of the dish, then spoon half of the meat sauce over it. Dollop half of the ricotta mixture on top of the meat sauce and gently spread it out. Repeat with the remaining zucchini, meat sauce, and ricotta mixture.
4. Top and Bake:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
5. Cool and Serve:
Remove from oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with the fresh basil slices before serving. Enjoy your warm, cheesy zucchini pizza casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Casserole?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before cooking to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
Can I Make Zucchini Pizza Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake as directed when ready to serve.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage make great substitutes. For a vegetarian version, try cooked lentils or crumbled tofu seasoned with Italian herbs.
