GF Zucchini Pizza Casserole – Discover the delights of our GF Zucchini Pizza Casserole Recipe. A gluten-free take. On a family favorite. This hearty dish features layers of shredded zucchini, savory turkey, and a rich marinara. Topped with gooey mozzarella. Perfect for a satisfying dinner.
The first time I whipped up this casserole. Was on a rainy day. When the kids were craving pizza. And we had a surplus of garden-fresh zucchini. I remember the kitchen filling with the aroma of Italian seasoning. And bubbling cheese. And the whole family. Gathering around the table. Eager for a taste. My husband. Always a bit skeptical of new gluten-free recipes. Took seconds. And the kids asked. If we could make it a weekly tradition!
What makes this GF Zucchini Pizza Casserole truly special?
What sets this casserole apart? Is its ingenious use of zucchini. In place of a traditional crust. Making it not only gluten-free. But also a veggie-packed, lower-carb option. Without sacrificing any of the pizza-like indulgences. The combination of lean turkey. And aromatic vegetables. Infused with Italian herbs. Ensures every bite. Is as nutritious as it is delicious.
What You Need To Make This GF Zucchini Pizza Casserole Recipe?
Zucchini: Acts as the ingenious crust substitute. Offering a moisture-rich foundation. That’s refreshingly light yet satisfying when baked.
Bell Pepper & Onion: These vegetables sweeten as they cook. Adding a caramelized depth. That complements the savory elements of the dish.
Garlic: Minced for a burst of flavor. It’s essential for achieving that deep, aromatic Italian zest. In every bite.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing. It brings its own subtle flavor. While helping to soften the vegetables.
Eggs: Bind the zucchini crust. Giving it structure and richness.
Ground Turkey: A lean, healthier alternative to beef. That absorbs the surrounding flavors wonderfully.
Marinara Sauce: The heart of the casserole’s flavor. Choose a high-quality brand. Or homemade version. For best results.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, comforting top layer. Every pizza lover craves.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty crust to the zucchini base. Enhancing the overall savoriness.
Italian Seasoning: This blend of classic herbs. Offers a shortcut to complex flavors. Reminiscent of an old-world pizzeria.
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Black Pepper & Onion Powder: Simple seasonings that elevate the taste profile. Without overpowering the main ingredients.
Steps To Make GF Zucchini Pizza Casserole:
Step 1: Prepare the Base: Start by grating zucchini. And squeezing out the excess water. Mix with eggs, Parmesan, and seasonings. And then press into a baking pan. Pre-cook this base to set it.
Step 2: Sauté Toppings: Soften onions and peppers in olive oil. Then add garlic and turkey. Cooking until browned. Blend in marinara and herbs. For a rich filling.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake: Layer the pre-baked zucchini crust. With the meat sauce. And sprinkle generously with mozzarella. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tip:
For a perfectly crispy. And firm zucchini crust. Ensure to wring out as much moisture as possible. Before mixing it with the other crust ingredients. After spreading the mixture in the pan. Pre-bake until it’s golden and set. This step is crucial. To prevent a soggy base once the toppings are added. Ensuring your casserole is deliciously sliceable. Just like traditional pizza.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole. But hold off on the final baking step. Until you’re ready to serve.
What other vegetables can I add to this casserole?
Mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes. Make great additions. Mix them in with the turkey. For extra flavor and nutrients.
How can I ensure the zucchini crust doesn’t get soggy?
The key is to drain the grated zucchini thoroughly. And pre-bake the crust. Before adding the toppings. This step helps. To lock in the structure.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
GF Zucchini Pizza Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- Four medium-sized zucchini One bell pepper finely chopped
- One yellow onion diced
- Four cloves of garlic finely minced
- One tablespoon of olive oil
- Two eggs
- One pound of ground turkey
- Two cups of marinara sauce
- Two cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- One-quarter cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- One tablespoon of Italian seasoning divided
- One-half teaspoon of black pepper
- One-half teaspoon of onion powder
Instructions
- Start by grating the zucchini. Into a colander. Press down with a spoon. To squeeze out as much water as possible.
- In a bowl, mix the grated zucchini with eggs, Parmesan, black pepper, onion powder, and a teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Transfer this mixture. Into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. And flatten it into an even layer. Bake this base. For 20 minutes.
- While that bakes. Warm the olive oil in a skillet. Over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper. Cooking until the onion turns translucent.
- Toss in the minced garlic. And let it cook for a minute more. Before adding the ground turkey. Cook until the turkey is no longer pink. Then mix in the marinara sauce. And another teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
- Take the zucchini base out of the oven. Evenly spread the turkey. And sauce mixture over it. And top with mozzarella cheese. And an additional sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Return it to the oven. And bake for another 20 minutes. Until everything is bubbly. And deliciously melded together.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
