Anti-Inflammatory Deep Dish Pizza Casserole Recipe
⏱ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
🍽 Servings: 6–8
🛒 Ingredients
Base:
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12 oz whole-grain penne or chickpea pasta (anti-inflammatory, high-fiber)
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1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small red onion, finely chopped
Sauce Layer:
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2 cups organic crushed tomatoes (no added sugar)
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp dried basil
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½ tsp turmeric (natural anti-inflammatory boost)
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½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
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Sea salt & black pepper to taste
Protein Layer:
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1 lb lean ground turkey or grass-fed beef
(or plant-based crumbles for vegetarian option) -
½ cup chopped spinach or kale
Cheese & Toppings:
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2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella
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½ cup freshly grated Parmesan
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20–25 slices nitrate-free turkey pepperoni
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½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
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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:
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Layer half the pasta
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Spread half the sauce
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Add half the protein
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Sprinkle mozzarella
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Repeat layers
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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
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Pair with a Mediterranean chopped salad (olive oil & lemon dressing)
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Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts or broccoli
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Add a side of garlic cauliflower mash for a low-carb balance
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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)
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Calories: 420–480
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Protein: 30g
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Carbohydrates: 38g
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Fiber: 6g
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Fat: 18g
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Saturated Fat: 7g
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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.
