Anti-Inflammatory Deep Dish Pizza Casserole Recipe
⏱ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
🍽 Servings: 6–8
🛒 Ingredients
Base:
12 oz whole-grain penne or chickpea pasta (anti-inflammatory, high-fiber)
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small red onion, finely chopped
Sauce Layer:
2 cups organic crushed tomatoes (no added sugar)
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp turmeric (natural anti-inflammatory boost)
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Sea salt & black pepper to taste
Protein Layer:
1 lb lean ground turkey or grass-fed beef
(or plant-based crumbles for vegetarian option)½ cup chopped spinach or kale
Cheese & Toppings:
2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan
20–25 slices nitrate-free turkey pepperoni
½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
½ cup sliced bell peppers
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Prepare the Sauce
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add garlic and onion; sauté 2–3 minutes.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, turmeric, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
Simmer 8–10 minutes.
3️⃣ Cook the Protein
In a separate pan, cook ground turkey or beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Mix in chopped spinach until wilted.
4️⃣ Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a 9×13-inch glass baking dish:
Layer half the pasta
Spread half the sauce
Add half the protein
Sprinkle mozzarella
Repeat layers
Top with Parmesan and pepperoni slices
5️⃣ Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
🥗 Serving Suggestions
Pair with a Mediterranean chopped salad (olive oil & lemon dressing)
Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts or broccoli
Add a side of garlic cauliflower mash for a low-carb balance
Enjoy with sparkling water + lemon for a clean lifestyle vibe
🔄 Variations
🥦 Low-Carb Keto Version
Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets.
🌱 Vegetarian Anti-Inflammatory
Use lentils or plant-based protein instead of meat.
🧀 Dairy-Free
Use almond mozzarella and nutritional yeast.
🌶 Spicy Metabolism Boost
Add jalapeños and cayenne pepper.
🥩 High-Protein Fitness Version
Add extra lean turkey and cottage cheese layer.
🧠 Why This Is Anti-Inflammatory
✔ Extra virgin olive oil (heart healthy fats)
✔ Turmeric (curcumin reduces inflammation)
✔ Garlic & onions (immune-supporting compounds)
✔ Whole grains (gut health & fiber)
✔ Reduced processed meats (use nitrate-free options)
📊 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: 420–480
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 6g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Sodium: 520mg
Values vary based on ingredients used.
❓ Related Questions
Is pizza casserole healthy?
Yes, when made with whole ingredients, lean proteins, and anti-inflammatory spices.
Can I meal prep this?
Absolutely. Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze before baking for best texture.
What makes a dish anti-inflammatory?
Ingredients like olive oil, leafy greens, turmeric, and minimally processed foods.
💡 Final Thoughts
This Deep Dish Pizza Casserole delivers all the comfort of traditional pizza with a healthier, anti-inflammatory twist. It’s perfect for those following a Mediterranean diet, clean eating lifestyle, high-protein meal plan, or family-friendly healthy recipes.
