Beef and Zucchini Casserole Recipe

When it comes to comfort food that is both hearty and healthy, look no further than this delicious beef and zucchini casserole recipe. This flavorful dish combines tender beef with fresh zucchini, cheese, and a blend of herbs, creating a meal that is sure to satisfy everyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is a standout choice.

Growing up, my family always cherished our Sunday dinners, and this casserole quickly became a favorite. I vividly remember my mom bustling around the kitchen, effortlessly putting together this fragrant dish. As the casserole baked, the aroma filled the house with a comforting warmth, bringing everyone together at the table with eager anticipation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The richness of the beef combined with the freshness of zucchini makes it nutritious and filling. It’s ideal for busy weeknights because it’s an all-in-one dish, minimizing the need for additional sides. Moreover, it scales easily for larger gatherings, making it a versatile staple for any occasion.

Ingredients Notes

Quality ingredients make all the difference in this casserole. Choose lean ground beef for the best flavor while keeping the dish healthy. Fresh zucchini adds moisture and nutrients; opt for organic if possible. Cheddar cheese provides a sharp, creamy contrast, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different taste profile.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring even coverage to prevent sticking.

Step 2

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Break the meat apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat.

Step 3

Add chopped onions, garlic, and zucchini slices to the skillet. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4

Stir in diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Storage Options

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This casserole also freezes well—slice into portions and freeze separately. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Variations & Substitutions

For a low-carb version, replace ground beef with ground turkey and use cauliflower instead of zucchini. Add a spicy twist with a dash of cayenne pepper or swap the cheddar for pepper jack cheese. Vegetarians can substitute the beef with a mix of mushrooms and beans for an equally satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply cover with foil and store in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, bake it in the preheated oven for an additional 10 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked through.

What sides go well with this dish? This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, balancing out the rich flavors. Alternatively, you can serve it with garlic bread or a side of rice for a more filling meal.

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe? Certainly! Replace the cheese with your favorite dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast can also be sprinkled on top before baking for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Consider using coconut cream in the filling mixture for added richness without milk-based products.

Beef and Zucchini Casserole Recipe

This Beef and Zucchini Casserole is a hearty dish perfect for dinner. It's filled with ground beef and fresh zucchini, layered in a cheesy tomato sauce.

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Course: Main Dish

Kitchen: American

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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• ▢ 1 lb ground beef
• ▢ 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ▢ 1/2 onion diced
• ▢ 2 cloves garlic minced
• ▢ 2 medium zucchini sliced into half-moons
• ▢ 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
• ▢ 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• ▢ 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon salt
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• ▢ 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ▢ 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ▢ Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes or chopped fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

• Preheat Oven:
• Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
• Brown the Beef:
• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed.
• Add Aromatics & Zucchini:
• Add onion and cook 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and zucchini, and sauté for 5–6 minutes until the zucchini starts to soften.
• Stir in Tomatoes & Seasoning:
• Add diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5–7 minutes to blend flavors.
• Assemble the Casserole:
• Spoon the beef and zucchini mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top evenly with mozzarella and sprinkle with Parmesan.
• Bake:
• Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
• Garnish (Optional):
• Sprinkle with chopped basil or parsley just before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add herbs like oregano or basil.