High-Protein Crustless Pizza Casserole

High-Protein Crustless Pizza Casserole

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 25–30 minutes

Servings: 6

Ingredients

Meat & Veggie Base:

• 1 lb (450g) 93% lean ground beef or ground Italian sausage (turkey or pork)
• 3 oz (85g) turkey pepperoni or classic sliced pepperoni
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 cup fresh button mushrooms, sliced
• ½ medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ½ tsp salt & black pepper

Sauce & Cheese Topping:

• 1½ cups (360g) low-sugar or marinara sauce
• 1½ cups (160g) part-skim low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat & PrepPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Brown the Meat & VeggiesHeat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef/sausage, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the meat is browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté the VeggiesAdd the sliced zucchini, green bell peppers, and mushrooms to the skillet with the cooked meat. Stir in the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 3–4 minutes just until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Assemble the CasseroleTransfer the meat and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out into an even layer. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the top, making sure everything is lightly coated.
5. Top with Cheese & PepperoniSprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly across the top. Lay the sliced pepperoni over the cheese layer.
6. Bake to MeltBake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges. (Optional: Broil on high for 2 minutes at the end for an extra crispy cheese top).
7. Rest & ServeLet the casserole cool for 5 minutes before scooping and serving hot.

Estimated Macros per Serving (1/6th of Casserole)

• Calories: ~310 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbs: 9g (2g fiber)
• Fat: 16g