Anti-Inflammatory Zucchini Pizza Casserole

This Anti-Inflammatory Zucchini Pizza Casserole delivers all the classic pizza flavors—without the inflammatory refined carbs. Made with fresh zucchini, olive oil, herbs, and quality cheese, this comforting bake is gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with antioxidants that support gut and joint health. A perfect family-friendly dinner that feels indulgent yet nourishing.

🥒 Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 3 medium zucchini, thinly sliced

• 1½ cups marinara sauce (no added sugar)

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup ricotta or cottage cheese

• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• Black pepper to taste

• Salt (optional, light)

• ½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)

• ¼ cup black olives or bell peppers (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prep Zucchini
   Lightly salt zucchini slices and let sit 10 minutes. Pat dry to remove excess moisture.

2. Preheat Oven
   Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).

3. Season Zucchini
   Toss zucchini with olive oil, turmeric, garlic powder, oregano, basil, and black pepper.

4. Assemble
   In a baking dish, layer zucchini → marinara → ricotta → mozzarella.
   Repeat layers and finish with mozzarella on top.

5. Bake
   Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.

6. Rest & Serve
   Let rest 5–7 minutes before slicing.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve with fresh green salad + olive oil dressing

• Pair with grilled chicken or baked fish

• Enjoy on its own for a light, low-carb dinner

• Add chili flakes or fresh basil before serving

🔄 Variations

• Protein Boost: Add cooked shredded chicken or turkey

• Vegan: Use dairy-free mozzarella and almond ricotta

• Keto: Skip ricotta and add more olive oil & mozzarella

• Mediterranean: Add olives, spinach, and feta (small amount)

❓ Related Questions

Q: Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free.

Q: Can I make it ahead?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: How do I prevent watery casserole?
Salting and drying zucchini is key.

Q: Is zucchini anti-inflammatory?
Yes—rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and polyphenols.

🥗 Nutrition (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: ~260

• Protein: 14 g

• Healthy Fats: 17 g

• Carbs: 9 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Gluten-Free | Low-GI | Anti-Inflammatory

💭 Final Thoughts

This Anti-Inflammatory Zucchini Pizza Casserole proves comfort food can be healing too. By replacing refined crust with nutrient-rich zucchini and using clean fats and herbs, you get bold pizza flavor without inflammation. Simple, satisfying, and perfect for healthy weeknight meals.