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To begin crafting your Zucchini Pizza Casserole, the first step is to prepare the meat. Use a large skillet over medium heat and add your Italian sausage. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey can also be a delicious substitute. As the sausage cooks, break it apart with a spatula, ensuring that it browns evenly and is fully cooked through. This process typically takes about 7-10 minutes.

Zucchini Pizza Casserole

Discover a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pizza with Zucchini Pizza Casserole. This satisfying dish combines tender zucchini, savory Italian sausage, and a medley of cheeses, making it a family favorite, even for picky eaters. Packed with nutrients and low in calories, it's perfect for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep. Enjoy the comfort of pizza flavors while staying on track with your health goals. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and elevate your mealtime!
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Ingredients
  

3 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds

1 lb ground Italian sausage (or turkey for a healthier option)

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup bell pepper, diced (red or green)

1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pan over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until softened.

      Cook the Meat: Add the ground Italian sausage to the pan, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

        Combine Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, pizza sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes into the meat mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

          Layer the Casserole: In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, start layering with half of the zucchini rounds. Pour half of the sausage mixture over the zucchini. Then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining zucchini, sausage mixture, and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

            Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to prevent excess browning) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

              Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before cutting into squares. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve warm.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 50 min | 6 servings