Ground Beef & Zucchini Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Ground Beef & Zucchini Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines lean beef with fresh vegetables and melted cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner and can be easily customized to your liking.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 medium zucchinis, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup canned low-sodium tomato sauce
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup cooked pasta (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
3. Step 3: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; sauté until fragrant and translucent.
4. Step 4: Stir in diced zucchini, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5 minutes until zucchini softens.
5. Step 5: In a baking dish, layer half of the meat mixture and half of the cheese. If using cooked pasta, you can layer it here as well. Repeat the layers.
6. Step 6: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbling.
7. Step 7: Let cool slightly before serving to allow flavors to settle.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic and onion.
• Use mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses instead of cheddar for a different cheese profile.
• If you prefer, swap zucchinis for yellow squash or bell peppers for added color and texture.
• To make this dish low-carb, omit the pasta and serve over cauliflower rice or a simple green salad.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and drain any excess liquid before adding the other ingredients.

Is it necessary to drain the fat after browning the beef?

Draining the fat helps reduce excess grease and keeps the casserole from becoming too oily, but if you prefer a richer flavor, you can leave some fat in the skillet.

Ground Beef & Zucchini Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 140 reviews

This Ground Beef & Zucchini Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish combining lean ground beef with fresh zucchini and melted cheddar cheese. It’s a flavorful and easy-to-make casserole that balances protein, vegetables, and rich tomato sauce, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.

• Author: Luna
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Salt

Ingredients

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Meat and Vegetables

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 medium zucchinis, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

Other Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup canned low-sodium tomato sauce
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup cooked pasta (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is ready for baking the casserole later.
2. Brown Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it turns brown and is no longer pink, then drain the excess fat to reduce greasiness.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until they become fragrant and translucent, enhancing the flavor base.
4. Add Vegetables and Sauce: Stir in the diced zucchini, canned tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors and soften the zucchini slightly.
5. Layer Casserole: In a baking dish, spread half of the meat and vegetable mixture, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Repeat the layering with the remaining mixture and cheese. If using, you can mix the cooked pasta into the meat mixture before layering.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to let it set and make serving easier.

Notes

• Using lean ground beef helps reduce fat content, making this dish healthier.
• Optional cooked pasta can add carb content and make the dish more filling.
• Low-sodium tomato sauce keeps sodium levels in check; adjust seasoning if needed.
• Feel free to substitute sharp cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella or a cheese blend for varied flavor.
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated.

Keywords: ground beef casserole, zucchini casserole, baked casserole, easy family dinner, low sodium recipe