This easy ground beef zucchini casserole is a cozy and hearty dish. It combines savory ground beef, tender zucchini, and melted cheese, making it a tasty meal for everyone!
One of my favorite parts? It’s a one-pan wonder that’s super simple to make! I love serving it with a side of crispy bread. Who doesn’t love a good cheesy casserole on a busy day? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef for this recipe to keep it a bit healthier. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too! For a vegetarian take, consider chickpeas or lentils.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis add a lovely texture. If zucchinis aren’t available, try using yellow squash or eggplant as alternatives. They bring a similar flavor and keep the dish hearty.
Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for that melty goodness. However, mozzarella or even pepper jack can add a different twist! For a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese or simply omit it.
Tomato Sauce: I prefer marinara for its rich flavor, but any tomato-based sauce will work. If you have fresh tomatoes, cook them down for a homemade sauce!
How Do I Cook Zucchini Without Making it Soggy?
Cooking zucchini just right can be tricky. You want it tender but not mushy. Here’s how to get that perfect texture:
- Slice your zucchini in half-moons for even cooking. Aim for uniform thickness.
- Cook zucchini just until slightly tender before adding to your casserole. This prevents them from releasing too much moisture while baking.
- Quickly sauté them for about 5 minutes on medium heat—just enough to soften them without losing their crunch.
This way, your casserole will have nice layers of flavor and texture without excess moisture!
Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For The Sauce and Creaminess:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- 1 cup marinara sauce or tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
Seasoning and Garnish:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or oregano/basil mix)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake, making the total time around 30 minutes. You’ll be enjoying a warm and comforting meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your casserole once you’re done preparing it.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3 minutes, until the onion is fragrant and translucent.
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and no longer pink, which will take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it away.
4. Add the Zucchini and Seasoning:
Stir in the sliced zucchini, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes, or until the zucchini starts to soften. This step helps to keep the zucchini from releasing too much moisture in the oven.
5. Mix in the Sauce and Creaminess:
Stir in the marinara sauce and sour cream (if you’re using it) until everything is well combined and heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the beef and zucchini mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top so it can melt and bubble nicely while baking.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You want the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
8. Let it Sit and Garnish:
Once it’s done baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set a bit. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you like!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish it out while it’s warm and enjoy your delicious ground beef zucchini casserole. It makes for a lovely low-carb meal that’s both hearty and satisfying!
Enjoy your comforting and easy ground beef zucchini casserole!
FAQ About Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Different Proteins in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is a classic choice, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the protein you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven; you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
This casserole is quite versatile! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or even diced tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly for denser veggies.
