Grated Zucchini Pizza Casserole Recipe

Craving a delicious yet low-carb meal that satisfies your pizza cravings? Look no further than this Grated Zucchini Pizza Casserole! Packed with fresh ingredients and savory flavors, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. Keep reading to discover how to create this mouth-watering casserole that's both keto-friendly and gluten-free.

What is Grated Zucchini Pizza Casserole?

Grated Zucchini Pizza Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional pizza. Instead of a carb-heavy crust, we use grated zucchini, making it a perfect choice for those on a keto or low-carb diet. This casserole combines the flavors of Italian sausage, cheeses, and vegetables, all baked to perfection in one dish.

Ingredients List for Grated Zucchini Pizza Casserole

For the Zucchini Crust:

• 4 medium zucchini, grated (approx. 4 cups)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• ½ cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded Italian blend cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

• 1 pound keto Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 roma tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend
• 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
• 1 cup shredded Italian blend cheese (remaining from crust ingredients)
• 2 teaspoons cracked black pepper
• Pink salt, to taste
• Fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

To suit different tastes or dietary needs, consider these substitutions:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or more vegetables like bell peppers and spinach.
• Cheese Varieties: Swap Colby Jack with mozzarella or cheddar based on preference.
• Mushrooms: Use portobello or button mushrooms if cremini are unavailable.
• Low-Sodium: Opt for low-sodium canned tomatoes and reduce added salt.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Zucchini Crust:

1. Grate and Salt Zucchini: Place the grated zucchini in a strainer over a bowl. Sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt. Mix and let stand for 15 minutes.
2. Remove Excess Moisture: Using a clean dish towel, wring out as much moisture from the zucchini as possible.
3. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the zucchini with eggs, Parmesan, and half of the shredded Italian blend cheese.
5. Form the Crust: Press the zucchini mixture into a greased 13x9-inch baking dish.
6. Bake the Crust: Bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes.

Preparing the Topping:

1. Cook Mushrooms: In a large skillet, cook mushrooms over medium heat until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
2. Add Onions: Add the chopped onions and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
3. Garlic and Sausage: Add minced garlic and crumble in the Italian sausage. Cook until the sausage is no longer pink.
4. Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chopped roma tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let the sauce thicken for about 5 minutes.

Assembling the Casserole:

1. Layer the Sauce: Spoon the sausage mixture over the baked zucchini crust.
2. Add Cheese: Sprinkle with the remaining Italian blend and Colby Jack cheeses.
3. Final Bake: Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Draining Zucchini: Ensure you wring out all excess moisture from the zucchini to prevent a soggy crust.
• Overcooking Sausage: Cook the sausage just until it’s no longer pink to avoid dryness.
• Skipping Pre-Bake: Don’t skip the initial baking of the zucchini crust; it’s crucial for texture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To make your Grated Zucchini Pizza Casserole even more appealing, consider these tips:

• Garnish: Top with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
• Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Portioning: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before cutting into portions to help it set.

How to Serve Grated Zucchini Pizza Casserole

1. Plating: Use a spatula to cut and serve portions onto plates.
2. Toppings: Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
3. Accompaniments: Pair with a light side dish like a Caesar salad or garlic bread.

Presentation Ideas for Grated Zucchini Pizza Casserole

• Layered Look: Ensure the cheese on top is golden and slightly crisp for a visually appealing dish.
• Color Contrast: Garnish with bright green parsley or a few cherry tomato halves.
• Serving Dish: Present in the baking dish for a rustic, homestyle feel.

Grated Zucchini Pizza Casserole Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: Grate and drain the zucchini in advance to save time.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through to maintain texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze Grated Zucchini Pizza Casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Reheat in the oven from frozen at 350 degrees F until heated through.

Q: What can I use instead of Italian sausage?
A: Ground beef, turkey, or a plant-based sausage can be used as substitutes.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as all ingredients used are verified to be gluten-free.

Q: How do I prevent a soggy zucchini crust?
A: Ensure you thoroughly wring out the zucchini after salting to remove as much moisture as possible.

Conclusion

Grated Zucchini Pizza Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that offers a healthy alternative to traditional pizza. With a flavorful zucchini crust and savory toppings, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a guilt-free, satisfying meal!

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