If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, the Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe is here to deliver. This casserole beautifully marries savory ground beef with fresh zucchini, layered with rich tomato flavors and melty cheese, making it an ideal meal for any night of the week. It’s simple enough to prepare on a busy evening but special enough that everyone will ask for seconds. Imagine tender zucchini slices soaked in a mouthwatering beef and tomato sauce, all baked under a blanket of golden, bubbling cheese—pure deliciousness with every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial part, from the juicy ground beef that provides richness to the vibrant zucchinis that add freshness and texture. These staples combine effortlessly, giving you a flavorful and colorful casserole that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to your palate.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star protein that gives heartiness and depth of flavor to the casserole.
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced: Adds a light, fresh texture and balances the richness of the meat.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and aroma, perfectly complementing the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a zesty punch that elevates the overall flavor.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Adds juicy brightness and a hint of acidity to the mix.
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce: Helps bind the casserole together with a smooth tomato base.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a classic herbaceous note that’s essential in Italian-inspired dishes.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Sweet and slightly peppery, it enhances the tomato flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Necessary for seasoning and bringing out every ingredient’s best taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat to balance the dish.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly into a stretchy, gooey topping that everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A sharp, nutty layer on top for an extra burst of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing and bringing a lovely richness without overpowering other flavors.
How to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your oven hits the perfect temperature for baking the casserole to golden perfection. Having everything prepped before you cook makes the entire process flow smoothly and stress-free.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Browning the meat for 6-8 minutes develops that deep, savory flavor essential for this casserole. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy while maintaining all the rich taste.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This step layers in a subtle sweetness and aroma that perfectly complements the ground beef and gives depth to the entire casserole.
Step 4: Simmer with Tomatoes and Herbs
Add the drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify, creating a rich, herbaceous sauce that clings to every zucchini slice.
Step 5: Layer the Zucchini Slices
Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and arrange half of the zucchini slices in an even layer at the bottom. These vibrant zucchini slices will provide a tender, fresh base that soaks up the delicious beef sauce.
Step 6: Alternate Layers of Beef Mixture and Zucchini
Spread half of the rich beef mixture over the zucchini, then layer the remaining zucchini slices on top. Finish by spreading the rest of the beef mixture evenly. Layering is key here; it ensures every bite has a perfect balance of zucchini and beef.
Step 7: Add the Cheeses
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the top. The mozzarella melts into a creamy, stringy layer, while the Parmesan adds a sharp, golden crust that makes the casserole irresistible.
Step 8: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes, allowing the casserole to steam and the zucchini to become perfectly tender. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to let the cheese bubble and turn a gorgeous golden brown on top – that’s the sign the Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley brightens each serving with a burst of color and herbal freshness. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a quick grating of Parmesan right before serving also makes the dish look and taste even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread to soak up all those delicious juices. Roasted vegetables or a light quinoa salad can also complement the meal, keeping the focus on fresh, healthy sides that balance the rich casserole perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family dinner or casual gathering, serve this casserole in individual ramekins for personalized portions. You can also top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of a twist. Layering the casserole in clear glass dishes adds a visual wow factor with the colorful layers perfectly visible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe will keep beautifully for up to 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or easy weekday lunches.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. Frozen casseroles can last up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, individual portions can be microwaved, but reheating in the oven helps maintain that crispy, golden cheese topping that makes this recipe so special.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that these options are leaner, so you might want to add a little extra olive oil when cooking to keep the casserole moist and flavorful.
Is this casserole low-carb or keto-friendly?
With zucchini replacing traditional pasta or potatoes, this casserole is naturally lower in carbs, making it a great choice for those watching their carb intake or following a keto-friendly diet. Just be mindful of the amount of tomato sauce as it contains some natural sugars.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or additional vegetables like mushrooms and eggplant for a delicious vegetarian version of the Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe that’s just as satisfying.
How can I make the casserole extra cheesy?
If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to increase the mozzarella and Parmesan amounts or add other favorites like cheddar or fontina. Just be mindful of the moisture content so your casserole doesn’t get too watery.
What’s the best way to slice the zucchini for this casserole?
Slice the zucchinis into rounds about 1/4 inch thick. This thickness allows them to soften nicely during baking without turning mushy, providing a pleasant bite that balances perfectly with the beef and cheese layers.
Final Thoughts
The Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe is a versatile, soul-satisfying dish that’s bound to become a favorite in your home. With simple ingredients coming together to create layers of flavor and texture, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy zucchini in a comforting, family-friendly meal. Give it a try—you might just find this recipe is your new go-to for quick, delicious dinners that everyone loves!
Print
Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender ground beef with fresh zucchini and a rich tomato sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal, this casserole is baked to golden bubbly perfection, showcasing a delightful blend of Italian-inspired herbs and delicious cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Sauce and Seasoning
- 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
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole later.
- Cook ground beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 6-8 minutes, then drain any excess fat if necessary to avoid greasiness.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, enhancing the flavor base.
- Add tomato mixture and season: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Prepare casserole layering: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish lightly. Arrange half of the sliced zucchini in an even layer at the bottom of the dish.
- Add beef layer: Spread half of the prepared beef and tomato mixture evenly over the zucchini layer. Repeat with the remaining zucchini slices followed by the remaining beef mixture, creating alternating layers.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, then sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese to finish the layering with a rich cheesy crust.
- Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil carefully and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese turns golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option if preferred.
- For a gluten-free version, confirm that the tomato sauce and canned tomatoes have no added gluten-containing ingredients.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and onions.
