Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s both hearty and healthy, you’ve come to the right place! This Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is one of my all-time favorites. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of savory ground beef and fresh zucchini creates a satisfying meal that brings everyone together.

What I love most about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole fits right in. Plus, it’s low-carb, making it a great choice for those watching their intake without sacrificing flavor. Let’s dive into why this dish will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cheesy goodness, and this casserole is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with veggies and lean protein, this dish makes for a nutritious dinner option.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of Italian seasoning and melted cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Gather these items to create a delicious dish that your whole family will love!

For the Casserole

• 2 medium zucchinis (about 2 lbs), sliced into 1/2” rounds
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and customize it to your taste.

• Swap the protein: You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Consider mixing in bell peppers or spinach for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Cheese it up: Try different types of cheese like cheddar or provolone for unique flavors.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick!

How to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Start by slicing the zucchini into 1/2-inch rounds. Place them in a colander and sprinkle with salt. This helps draw out excess moisture, ensuring your casserole doesn’t get soggy. Let them sit for about 15 minutes while you chop your onions and garlic.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Rinse the zucchini thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and add the diced onions. Cook for about 2 minutes until they soften, then add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This step builds a strong flavor base for your casserole!

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to crumble it as it cooks. Allow it to brown completely for about 5 minutes. Once cooked through, stir in the drained diced tomatoes along with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Removing it from heat at this point prevents overcooking and keeps everything juicy.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In an 8×8-inch baking dish, layer half of the beef mixture on the bottom. Next, add half of those beautiful zucchini slices followed by half of your shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers one more time for maximum deliciousness.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Place your casserole in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is melted and starting to turn golden brown—this is where all that cheesy goodness comes from!

Step 6: Cool Before Serving

Once done baking, let your casserole sit for about 10 minutes before slicing into it. Allowing it to set helps maintain its shape when serving—a little patience goes a long way!

Serve up this comforting Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole tonight; I promise it’s going to be an instant hit!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

Making the perfect Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole can be a breeze with these handy tips!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh zucchinis and quality ground beef to enhance the flavor and texture of your casserole. Fresh ingredients give your dish that extra zing that frozen or canned options simply can’t match.
• Season Well: Don’t be shy with the spices! A generous sprinkle of Italian seasoning and a pinch of salt and pepper will elevate the flavors, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
• Layer Strategically: When layering your casserole, ensure an even distribution of meat, zucchini, and cheese. This helps every slice hold together well and ensures balanced flavors throughout.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for 10 minutes after baking is key. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
• Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella adds a lovely stretchiness, consider mixing in some cheddar or Parmesan for added depth of flavor. It’s a small change that can make a big difference!

How to Serve Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

Serving your Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole creatively can make mealtime even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas to help you present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil on top adds a burst of color and freshness that enhances the overall taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a light dusting of red pepper flakes can complement the richness of the cheese and ground beef.
• Grated Parmesan: A handful of grated Parmesan sprinkled over the top just before serving brings an extra layer of flavor that guests will love.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread serves as the perfect companion, allowing you to soak up any delicious sauce left on your plate.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing mixed green salad with vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and balances out the richness of the casserole.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only adds color but also provides a nutritious contrast to the hearty casserole.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve this dish alongside cauliflower rice. It’s light and easy to prepare while still being filling.

Enjoy crafting your Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole, and don’t forget to share it with family and friends for a delightful meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your casserole fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool fully before freezing.
• Cut into portions for easier thawing.
• Wrap each portion tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole.

Can I use other vegetables in my Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I make my Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole gluten-free?

This recipe is already gluten-free since it doesn’t contain any flour or breadcrumbs. Just ensure that your canned tomatoes have no added gluten ingredients.

Can I prepare Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

What can I serve with my Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. You could also serve it with quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal.

Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole stores well, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping during busy weeks.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole as much as I do! It’s a fantastic dish that brings together wholesome ingredients with cheesy goodness. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this casserole will surely become a favorite. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations you tried—I’d love to hear from you! Happy cooking!