A tasty dish offers all the flavors of your favorite pizza while keeping the carbs low and healthy. It's a simple, satisfying way to enjoy a comforting meal without the extra guilt.
Prep Time10 min
Cook Time40 min
Total Time50 min
Difficulty
Medium
Kitchen Tricks
Slice the zucchini evenly to ensure it cooks through at the same rate.
Use a non-stick baking dish or lightly grease the pan to prevent sticking.
Let the bake rest for a few minutes after cooking to help it set and slice more easily.
Ingredients
0/11
Why This Recipe Is So Good
A great way to enjoy the flavors of pizza without the heavy carbs. It uses zucchini as a base, making it lighter and packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings and cheese.
Step 1
Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 10x13-inch baking dish. Take the shredded zucchini and sprinkle it with salt in a colander, then press down to squeeze out as much moisture as you can. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a large bowl.
Step 2
Mix in the eggs, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder until everything is well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the baking dish and pop it into the oven to bake for 20 minutes, uncovered.
Step 3
While that’s baking, warm up a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef with the chopped onion until the beef is browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess grease, then stir in the pizza sauce. Spread this meaty sauce over the zucchini base once it’s out of the oven.
Step 4
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top, add pepperoni slices, and return the dish to the oven. Bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving and enjoy!
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people cooked this recipe
ByDavid Brown
David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.
How To Plate This Dish
Serve warm with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with a simple tomato dipping sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
Freezing Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the texture intact. For longer storage, freeze portions in a sealed container and thaw overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove excess moisture from the zucchini?
Sprinkle the shredded zucchini with salt, place it in a colander, and press down firmly to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Let it sit for 10 minutes before using.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with cheeses like cheddar or provolone, but mozzarella melts best for this recipe.
Is it necessary to drain the grease from the cooked ground beef?
Yes, draining excess grease helps prevent the dish from becoming too oily and keeps it lighter.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble it ahead and refrigerate, but bake it just before serving for the best texture.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Replace the ground beef and pepperoni with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or plant-based meat alternatives.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before eating.
What can I use if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
Mix dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary as a substitute for Italian seasoning.
Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, using zucchini instead of traditional crust reduces carbohydrates significantly.
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