This Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a tasty one-pan meal that brings together beef, fresh zucchini, and cheese for a comfort food win! It’s hearty yet healthy—what’s not to love?
My favorite part? The cheese that melts on top—it’s like a cozy hug in every bite! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, which means more time to relax and enjoy a good show while it bakes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star ingredient! I like lean ground beef for a healthier option, but you can also use turkey or chicken if you prefer. For a vegetarian take, try lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis add nutrition and texture. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works as a good alternative. Eggplant can also be used, but it may change the dish’s flavor a bit.
Onion: A small onion adds depth to the flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use shallots or even green onions instead—they’ll offer a similar flavor with a twist.
Cheese: I love the melty texture of mozzarella, but feel free to mix in cheddar or provolone if you want a different flavor. Vegan cheese options can also work for dairy-free diets!
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini Stays Tender and Not Watery?
Getting zucchini just right is key! To avoid a watery casserole, start by salting the zucchini slices. Sprinkle some salt on them and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This draws out excess moisture, keeping your casserole nice and firm.
- Pat the zucchini dry with a paper towel after salting to remove the moisture.
- Layer the zucchini evenly in the dish, which helps with cooking consistency.
This little trick makes all the difference in texture! Enjoy your casserole!
Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
Total Time Needed:
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 35-40 minutes of baking time, making the total time around 50-55 minutes. Most of this is hands-off as it bakes, so you can relax while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, gather all your ingredients and get your chopping done. Slice those zucchinis and chop your onion to make things move smoothly!
2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Add in the minced garlic and keep cooking for another minute until you can smell its yummy aroma. Now, add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. Cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Season it with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning for a lovely flavor!
3. Combine with Sauce:
Stir in the marinara or tomato sauce with the beef mixture. Let this simmer for about 3-4 minutes. This step will make the flavors really meld together nicely!
4. Layer the Casserole:
In your casserole dish, lay down half of the sliced zucchini as your first layer. Next, pour over half of the beef mixture. Sprinkle ¾ cup of the mozzarella cheese on top of that. Then, repeat this process: another layer of zucchini, the remaining beef mixture, and finally top it off with the rest of the mozzarella cheese. To finish, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese all over the top.
5. Bake and Serve:
Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. When it’s done, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. If you want to add a pop of color and flavor, garnish with some fresh basil or parsley!
Now, dig in and enjoy your delicious, hearty, and easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lighter alternatives. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try substituting with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly!
How Do I Prevent the Casserole from Getting Watery?
To keep the dish from being watery, salt the sliced zucchini and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture before adding them to the casserole. Pat them dry with a paper towel afterward to help achieve a firmer texture.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake it, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be chilled. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before baking if possible.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. If it seems a bit dry, adding a splash of marinara sauce can help bring it back to life!
