Linda'S Zucchini Pizza Casserole
A hearty zucchini casserole layered with fresh vegetables, cheese, and Italian seasonings, perfect for family dinners or veggie lovers seeking comforting, flavorful dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine and add bread crumbs.
- Line the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with the bread crumbs and margarine mixture.
- Peel and slice zucchini 1/2-inch thick to cover the bottom.
- Layer zucchini slices over the bread crumbs.
- Top with onion slices to cover the zucchini.
- Add tomato slices over the onions.
- Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning.
- Cover all with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
- Remove from oven and cover with 2 cups (or more) mozzarella cheese.
- Return to oven for 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some cooked ground turkey or beef with the vegetables. You can also substitute zucchini with eggplant or squash if desired. If you prefer a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread crumbs. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the taste as well. This dish is versatile and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This zucchini pizza casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside a light soup or as a hearty side dish. For a vegetarian twist, consider serving it with a side of Green Olive Dip to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking the cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Linda'S Zucchini Pizza Casserole contains roughly 457 calories, with 15g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value) and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 804mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative if you're looking for a vegan option that still offers a cheesy taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).