Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

Name: Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 3 medium zucchinis, sliced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1/2 cup tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Isabella

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Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole a hearty and healthy casserole made with ground beef, zucchini, and a blend of seasonings, topped with melted cheese for a comforting meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is the perfect balance of savory and satisfying. I love how it brings together tender zucchini, juicy ground beef, and a rich tomato base, all baked under a golden, bubbly layer of cheese. It’s an easy-to-make, one-dish meal that’s comforting, packed with flavor, and low-carb, making it a great option for anyone craving a nutritious yet filling dish. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

3 medium zucchinis, sliced

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

1/2 cup tomato sauce

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon olive oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 6-8 minutes, then drain any excess fat if needed.

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and layer half of the zucchini slices at the bottom.

Spread half of the beef mixture over the zucchini slices. Then, repeat with the remaining zucchini and beef mixture.

Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.

Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 4

Variations

Add more vegetables: You can mix in other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.

Low-carb: For an even lower-carb version, swap the zucchini with cauliflower slices.

Cheese options: If you prefer a different type of cheese, feel free to swap the mozzarella for cheddar or a cheese blend of your choice.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I like to store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions until hot.

Related Recipes:

Cinnamon Roll Zucchini Bread

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, bake it from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I add more cheese?

If you love cheese like I do, feel free to sprinkle extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top before baking!

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is ready when the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the zucchini is tender.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a versatile, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy nights. It combines the best of savory beef, fresh zucchini, and gooey cheese for a comforting dish that’s sure to please. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping meals for the week, this casserole is a winner every time.

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