Ultimate Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe Delight

The aroma of a bubbling Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole wafts through the kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation. The golden, cheesy top beckons you like a warm hug on a chilly evening, promising comfort and satisfaction in every bite. For more inspiration, check out this lunch options recipe.

I’ve made this dish countless times, often reminiscing about family dinners where laughter was just as abundant as the flavors. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a gathering with friends, this casserole never fails to impress.

There was that one time my friend exclaimed that it was “life-changing,” while I just stood there, basking in the glory of my culinary accomplishments.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

• Zucchini: Look for firm zucchini; they add moisture and nutrition to your casserole.

• Onion: Sweet onions work best; they caramelize beautifully and enhance the overall taste.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide a robust flavor that pairs perfectly with the beef.

• Cheese (Mozzarella): Use fresh mozzarella for a melty, gooey topping that everyone loves.

• Crushed Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes; they add richness and depth to the sauce.

• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings out the best in the vegetables and meat.

• Olive Oil: A drizzle of good olive oil enhances flavors and prevents sticking during cooking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Chop your zucchini into half-moon slices and dice your onion. Get ready for some savory fun.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

Brown the Ground Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula until no pink remains. It’ll smell amazing, trust me!

Add Zucchini and Tomatoes: Stir in sliced zucchini and crushed tomatoes along with Italian seasoning. Cook until zucchini softens slightly—around 5-7 minutes—before removing from heat.

Create Layers in Casserole Dish: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the beef mixture at the bottom. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top before repeating these layers with remaining ingredients.

Bake Until Golden: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes or until cheese bubbles and turns golden brown. You’ll want to dive right in!

Enjoy this delightful Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole hot from the oven! Each bite is filled with hearty beef, tender zucchini, and melty cheese that will have you dreaming about dinner long after it’s gone. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet, then layer zucchini, tomatoes, and cheese for a perfect bake.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap zucchini for other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, or add spices like smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave until warm.

Sharing this dish at a potluck was a hit; everyone asked for seconds and I felt like a culinary superstar that night!

FAQ

What can I substitute for ground beef in this casserole?

Ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives work well as substitutes.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a day prior and refrigerate before baking.

Is it possible to freeze this Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole?

Absolutely! Freeze it before baking for up to three months.

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Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

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Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines savory ground beef with tender zucchini, all topped with melty mozzarella cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this easy-to-make casserole is packed with flavor and nutrition. Each bite offers a delightful harmony of textures and tastes, making it a family favorite that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until translucent (3-5 minutes).
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking apart as needed.
4. Stir in sliced zucchini, crushed tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Cook until zucchini softens (5-7 minutes).
5. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the beef mixture, then half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until cheese is golden.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole (about 300g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Substitute zucchini with bell peppers or mushrooms for a different flavor profile. For extra creaminess, add more cheese before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze before baking for up to three months.