This Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a warm and hearty dish that brings together seasoned ground beef, fresh zucchini, and cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner!
No need to fuss in the kitchen; this one-pan wonder is super simple to make. I love how the zucchini soaks up all the flavors—plus, it’s a sneaky way to get in some veggies! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer 80/20 ground beef for its balance of flavor and fat. If you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. Just be careful not to overcook it, as leaner meats can dry out.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key here. If you don’t have zucchinis, consider using yellow squash or eggplant. Just be sure to cut them in similar sizes for even cooking!
Cheeses: I love using a mix of mozzarella and ricotta for creaminess. Cottage cheese can substitute for ricotta for a lighter option. If you’re avoiding dairy, try cashew cheese for a plant-based twist.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade if you have it. If you want to make it a bit fresher, adding some chopped tomatoes and herbs can also enhance the flavor.
How Do I Layer the Casserole for Best Results?
Layering is essential for a flavorful casserole! Start with zucchini to absorb the meat juices and prevent sogginess on the bottom. Alternate layers to distribute ingredients evenly and build flavor.
- Start with a layer of zucchini.
- Add ground beef next, spreading it out evenly.
- Follow with dollops of the cheese mixture, making sure it’s well-distributed.
- Continue layering in this order, finishing with cheese on top for a lovely golden finish.
This technique helps each bite have a bit of everything, making it more enjoyable to eat!
Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of baking time, giving you a total of around 45 minutes to a delicious and hearty meal. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your casserole.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks, and make sure it’s browned all the way through. If there’s excess fat, you can drain some off for a leaner dish.
4. Add the Sauce and Seasonings:
Stir in the marinara or tomato sauce, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors blend.
5. Mix the Cheeses:
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix them well for a creamy layer.
6. Layer the Casserole:
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, start by laying down a layer of zucchini slices to cover the bottom. Then, spread half of your seasoned ground beef mixture over the zucchini. Follow this by dolloping and gently spreading half of the ricotta and mozzarella mixture over the ground beef.
7. Continue Layering:
Add another layer of zucchini slices on top, followed by the rest of the ground beef mixture. For the final layer, spread on the remaining ricotta and mozzarella mixture. Don’t forget to sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
8. Bake the Casserole:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly with a golden brown color.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help it set a bit. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor!
Enjoy your satisfying, cheesy ground beef and zucchini casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute Zucchini with Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! If zucchini isn’t your favorite, you can use other vegetables like yellow squash or eggplant. Just make sure to slice them into similar thickness as the zucchini for even cooking.
Is It Possible to Make This Casserole Keto-Friendly?
Yes! You can make it keto-friendly by using ground turkey or beef, and replacing the marinara sauce with a no-sugar-added version. Additionally, consider using a low-carb cheese like mozzarella or even cream cheese for the creamy layer.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in the oven until heated through. If you find it seems dry, add a splash of marinara sauce while reheating to keep it moist!
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen! After assembling, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze before baking. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake according to the original instructions. Just give it an extra 5-10 minutes if it’s still a bit cold in the center!
