The Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe is one of those comforting, wholesome dishes that combines hearty flavors with fresh, vibrant veggies in every bite. Imagine tender slices of zucchini layered with savory ground beef cooked in a rich tomato sauce, all topped with a melty cheese blanket that’s golden and inviting. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners or welcoming guests into your kitchen. This recipe brings out the best balance of textures and flavors, making it a true family favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the deliciousness of this dish. Each one plays an essential role, whether it’s the juiciness of the tomatoes, the freshness of the zucchini, or the aromatic herbs that elevate the flavors beautifully.
- 1 lb ground beef: The protein base adds hearty richness that makes the casserole filling.
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced: Fresh and light, they bring moisture and a gentle crunch that balances the meat.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed until tender.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant kick to the beef and tomato mixture.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Provides a fresh, tangy tomato bite without extra liquid.
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce: Creates a rich, saucy base that coats every layer perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a touch of earthy, herbal warmth.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Brightens the dish with subtle sweetness and aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors naturally.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle spice.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create that classic cheesy topping.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings sharp, nutty notes that complement the mozzarella.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the beef and vegetables with a lovely, smooth base.
How to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready by the time the casserole is all assembled, so your baking goes perfectly without any waiting.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as you cook. Let the beef brown until it’s beautifully seared and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Let the entire mixture simmer gently for around 5 minutes so the flavors can meld and build a rich, savory sauce that ties everything together.
Step 5: Layer the Zucchini
Grab a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and lay out half of your zucchini slices evenly along the bottom. This fresh vegetable layer will create a wonderful texture contrast to the meaty sauce.
Step 6: Add Beef Mixture and Repeat
Spread half of the beef and tomato mixture over the zucchini layer. Then place the remaining zucchini slices on top, followed by the rest of the beef mixture. Layering like this ensures every forkful includes a perfect balance of beef and zucchini.
Step 7: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly on top. These cheeses bake into a golden, bubbly finish that makes the casserole irresistibly cheesy and delightful.
Step 8: Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbling, signaling that your Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe is ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil leaves adds a burst of color and freshness to your casserole just before serving. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also enhance the flavors and add a shiny, appetizing finish.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some crusty garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of that savory sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans or carrots also complement the dish nicely, rounding out your meal with extra veggies.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions that look elegant and inviting. You can also layer the components in clear glass dishes to showcase the colorful layers of zucchini, meat, and melted cheese, turning dinner into a feast for the eyes as well.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect option for easy lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe dish and wrapping tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a microwave or oven until warmed through. To retain crispy cheese on top, the oven is best—cover loosely with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and will work well in this casserole. Just keep an eye on cooking times as turkey usually cooks a little faster than beef.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, this Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t include any wheat-based ingredients. Just be sure to check your canned tomato products’ labels to confirm.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients. Just sauté them with the onion and garlic before adding the beef to maintain texture and flavor balance.
What cheese can I substitute if I don’t have mozzarella?
Provolone or cheddar can be great alternatives, each adding their own unique twist on flavor and meltiness. Choose based on your preference—mozzarella keeps it classic and mild, while cheddar offers a sharper taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Easy! Just add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the beef and tomato mixture while it simmers to give it an exciting kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug but is also packed with nutrition and flavor, this Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe is a winner. It’s straightforward to make, wonderfully satisfying, and perfect for bringing friends and family to the table. Give it a try—you might just find your new weeknight favorite!
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Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and flavorful Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole featuring layers of sautéed ground beef, fresh zucchini slices, and a rich tomato sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This baked casserole is a comforting and nutritious meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 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
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart until browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Tomato Mixture: Stir in drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Layer Zucchini: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and place half of the zucchini slices evenly on the bottom.
- Add Beef Mixture: Spread half of the beef and tomato mixture over the zucchini. Then layer the remaining zucchini slices on top, followed by the rest of the beef mixture.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
- Be sure to drain excess fat from the ground beef to prevent a greasy casserole.
- If zucchinis are very watery, consider lightly salting them and letting them sit before layering to reduce moisture.
- You can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for variation.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the beef.
