Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory ground beef with tender zucchini, all nestled in a cheesy, gooey layer that’s simply irresistible. delicious tater tot casserole Imagine serving this warm dish to your family, the aroma wafting through the air like a warm hug on a chilly evening. For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?
- Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
- How do I know when it’s done cooking?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I still remember the first time I made Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole for my friends. Their eyes widened with excitement as they took their first bites, and I felt like a culinary rock star! This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, promising mouthwatering flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. low carb egg roll bowl.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole offers quick preparation without sacrificing flavor; it’s a family favorite that pleases even picky eaters. The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests. With its versatility, you can easily swap ingredients based on what you have available. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients while remaining deliciously satisfying. [/info_box]
I once served this casserole at a potluck, and it disappeared faster than you can say “seconds, please!”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option; it provides rich flavor without excessive greasiness.
Zucchini: Choose firm zucchinis for best texture; they should be free of soft spots. For more inspiration, check out this One Pot Ravioli Soup recipe.
Onion: A medium-sized onion adds sweetness and depth to the casserole; chop it finely for even cooking. twice baked sweet potatoes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring a wonderful aromatic quality to the dish; use more if you love garlic!
Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is great for melting; feel free to mix in cheddar for added flavor. cheddar and herb soda bread.
Tomato Sauce: Use canned or homemade tomato sauce—either works wonders in bringing moisture and flavor.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs enhances the overall taste; adjust based on your preference.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors in your casserole.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
First things first: prep work!
Chop Your Veggies: Start by dicing your onion and mincing your garlic. Set them aside while you slice the zucchini into thin rounds.
Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and crumbly—about 5-7 minutes—draining excess fat afterward.
Add Aromatics and Zucchini: Toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté until they soften and become fragrant—around 3-4 minutes. Then add zucchini slices; cook until slightly tender.
Pour in Tomato Sauce and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato sauce along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes so those flavors meld beautifully.
Layer and Cheese Time!: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, layer half of the meat mixture, followed by some cheese. Repeat this process with remaining ingredients.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Enjoy that heavenly smell filling your kitchen!
Serve warm and watch as everyone digs in with delight!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a fantastic, comforting dish that blends flavors beautifully. The zucchini adds moisture and nutrition, while the beef provides heartiness. It’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights, easy to prepare, and even easier to enjoy with family. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet while you slice the zucchini. Layer everything in a baking dish, top it with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out zucchini for eggplant or add bell peppers for extra crunch. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar to personalize your casserole.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it stays delicious.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To make your Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole shine, ensure even cooking by slicing zucchini uniformly. Season your beef well for maximum flavor, and let it rest after baking—this enhances taste and texture. [/info_box]
Creating this casserole reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air while delicious aromas wafted from the kitchen. It became a crowd favorite instantly!
FAQ
Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully as lighter alternatives.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking for future meals.
How do I know when it’s done cooking?
The casserole should be bubbly on top and the cheese golden brown for perfect doneness.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a delightful comfort dish that brings together savory ground beef and tender zucchini in a cheesy, gooey layer. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this casserole is quick to prepare and promises mouthwatering flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. With its vibrant colors and nutritional benefits, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can easily be adapted based on your available ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup tomato sauce (canned or homemade)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes; drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; sauté until softened (3-4 minutes).
- Stir in zucchini slices; cook until slightly tender.
- Mix in tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the meat mixture followed by some cheese; repeat layers.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
