Irresistible Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe

Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a cozy dish that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas and warms your heart. Imagine tender zucchini mingling with savory ground beef, topped with melted cheese that stretches like a deliciously cheesy hug. cozy ground beef recipes Ground beef stir fry recipe.

This casserole is not just a meal; it’s a family tradition in my kitchen. Whenever I make this dish, memories of laughter-filled dinners with loved ones flood back. It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion, from casual weeknights to special gatherings that deserve something truly tasty. For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe.

I once made this for a potluck, and my friends devoured it faster than I could say “seconds.” It was a hit!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for less grease and more flavor in your casserole.

• Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchinis are best; they add moisture and nutrients without overpowering the dish. zucchini noodle dishes.

• Onion: A sweet yellow onion adds depth; sauté until translucent for optimal flavor.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves infuse the casserole with an aromatic punch; use minced for even distribution.

• Tomato Sauce: Use a good-quality sauce to enhance flavors; homemade or store-bought works well.

• Cheese: Shredded mozzarella or cheddar creates a gooey topping that everyone loves.

• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil and oregano elevates the dish’s flavor profile beautifully.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.

• Panko Breadcrumbs (optional): For extra crunch on top, mix with cheese before baking for texture contrast.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping the onion and mincing fresh garlic. Cut the zucchini into thin rounds so they cook evenly throughout.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the onion until it’s translucent and fragrant. Toss in minced garlic until golden brown.

Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned all over, breaking it apart as it cooks for even texture. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Zucchini & Sauce : Stir in zucchini rounds and pour in tomato sauce. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for enhanced flavor; let simmer for about 10 minutes until zucchini softens slightly.

Create Layers in a Baking Dish : Transfer half of the meat mixture into a greased baking dish. Layer half of the shredded cheese on top before adding the remaining meat mixture followed by the rest of the cheese.

Bake to Perfection : Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare to bake. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; then remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is now ready to serve! Enjoy every cheesy bite amidst laughter, conversation, and perhaps some friendly debates over who gets seconds! slow cooker casserole idea.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet before adding the zucchini and other ingredients. This ensures even cooking and maximum flavor development.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken. You can also add cheese, herbs, or different veggies based on your taste preferences.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through to maintain texture.

Sharing this casserole with friends is one of my favorite memories; they devoured it and asked for seconds, which made my heart smile.

FAQ

What can I substitute for ground beef in this casserole?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier option.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

How do I know when it’s done cooking?

The casserole should be bubbly and golden on top, typically around 30-40 minutes at 350°F.

Print

Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: tastyfoodonly
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines savory ground beef with tender zucchini, all topped with melted cheese. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners and gatherings, bringing together flavors and memories around the table. The vibrant colors and delightful aroma will have everyone asking for seconds!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar)
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onion in a splash of oil until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet; brown until fully cooked, breaking it apart as you go. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in sliced zucchini and tomato sauce; season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the meat mixture followed by half of the cheese. Repeat with remaining meat mixture and cheese on top.
6. If desired, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the cheese for added crunch.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 355
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg