Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a dish that instantly transports you to cozy family dinners. Imagine the rich aroma of seasoned ground beef mingling with tender zucchini, all bubbling under a layer of gooey cheese. cozy beefaroni recipe creamy zucchini pasta dish. For more inspiration, check out this creamy chicken marsala pasta recipe.
Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and you’re craving something hearty yet healthy. This casserole not only warms you from the inside out but also brings a smile to everyone at the table, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. hearty zuppa toscana soup.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a breeze to prepare, saving you time in the kitchen
- The layers of flavor create a delightful taste explosion in every bite
- Its colorful presentation makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any meal
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on your family’s preferences or what’s in your fridge
I once served this casserole at a family gathering, and the compliments kept pouring in! It was a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease, but feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
Zucchini: Choose firm zucchinis; they should be free from blemishes and have a vibrant color.
Onions: A sweet onion adds depth of flavor; chop finely for even cooking.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring an aromatic kick that elevates the entire dish.
Tomato Sauce: Opt for low-sodium tomato sauce; it helps control saltiness while keeping it flavorful.
Cheese: Shredded mozzarella or cheddar provides a melty finish that ties everything together beautifully.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil enhances the Mediterranean flavors of the casserole.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil keeps things moist and adds richness without overpowering flavors.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to personal taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Chop up your zucchini, onions, and garlic while your kitchen begins to warm up with anticipation.
Sauté the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until no pink remains.
Add Onions and Garlic: Toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic into the skillet. Sauté until onions turn translucent and aromatic—about 3-5 minutes will do!
Mix in Tomato Sauce and Zucchini: Stir in the tomato sauce along with diced zucchini. Season generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
Layer Your Casserole Dish: In a baking dish, start layering by spooning half of the beef-zucchini mix at the bottom. Then sprinkle half of your cheese on top before repeating layers.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil, bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
With each step, imagine how delicious that final product will taste—each layer rich with flavor!
Now that you’ve created your masterpiece, let it cool down slightly before serving. Enjoy every cheesy bite of this Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole—it’s sure to become a family favorite! hearty beef noodle casserole. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy beef wraps recipe.
You Must Know
- Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a delightful dish that combines hearty flavors with a nutritious twist
- The blend of meat and veggies creates a satisfying meal, while the melting cheese adds an irresistible touch
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep for busy days!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef until fully cooked, then layer zucchini and sauce. Bake until bubbly and golden for the best results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap zucchini with other vegetables like eggplant or bell peppers. Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for crispy edges or microwave for convenience.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole turns out perfectly, consider these tips</strong>: Pre-slice zucchini thinly for even cooking and avoid excess moisture
- Season ground beef well before browning to enhance flavor
- Let it rest after baking for better texture and easier serving
A few weeks ago, I made this casserole for my family reunion, and everyone gobbled it up! The kids asked for seconds, which is always the highest praise in my book!
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as leaner alternatives.
Is this casserole suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, just ensure you use gluten-free ingredients in sauces and seasonings.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add some crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to spice things up!
Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines savory ground beef with tender zucchini and gooey cheese. Perfect for chilly evenings, this one-pan meal offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will please both kids and adults alike. Easy to prepare and customizable, it makes an excellent choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 medium sweet onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium tomato sauce
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in onions and garlic; sauté until onions are translucent (about 3-5 minutes).
- Add tomato sauce and zucchini; season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a baking dish, layer half the beef-zucchini mixture followed by half the cheese. Repeat layers.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 casserole (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider swapping zucchini with eggplant or bell peppers. Experimenting with different cheeses can also yield unique tastes!
