🍕 Mediterranean Zucchini Pizza Casserole
📝 Description
This easy zucchini pizza casserole delivers everything you love about pizza—melty cheese, savory sauce, and herby flavor—without the heavy crust. Inspired by Mediterranean cooking, it uses fresh zucchini, olive oil, tomato sauce, herbs, and lean protein for a healthy, family-friendly dinner. Even picky eaters won’t miss the dough!
🧾 Ingredients
-
4 medium zucchini, sliced into thin rounds
-
2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
-
1 small onion, finely chopped
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 cup pizza or marinara sauce (no added sugar)
-
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
-
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
-
½ cup sliced olives (black or Kalamata)
-
½ cup cooked chicken sausage or turkey pepperoni (optional)
-
1 tsp dried oregano
-
½ tsp dried basil
-
Salt & black pepper to taste
-
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Zucchini
Preheat oven to 190°C / 375°F.
Lightly salt zucchini slices and let sit for 10 minutes. Pat dry to remove excess moisture.
2️⃣ Sauté the Base
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add onion and cook until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3️⃣ Assemble the Casserole
Lightly grease a baking dish.
Layer half the zucchini slices on the bottom.
Spread half the sauce over zucchini, then add half the mozzarella, chicken sausage (if using), olives, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano and basil.
Repeat layers.
4️⃣ Top & Bake
Finish with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
5️⃣ Rest & Serve
Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs.
🌿 Mediterranean Tips
-
Add spinach or roasted red peppers for extra veggies
-
Use feta or halloumi for a Mediterranean cheese twist
-
Serve with a simple olive oil–lemon salad
❓ Q & A
Q: Is this casserole low-carb?
A: Yes! Zucchini replaces pizza crust, making it naturally low-carb and keto-friendly.
Q: How do I prevent a watery casserole?
A: Salting and patting dry the zucchini is key. You can also lightly grill or roast slices beforehand.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Absolutely. Skip the meat and add mushrooms, artichokes, or chickpeas.
Q: Will kids really like this?
A: Yes! The cheesy pizza flavor wins over even picky eaters—many don’t realize it’s zucchini-based.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
