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Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole

Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole

A comforting and wholesome Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole that combines tender zucchini, lean ground beef, tomato sauce, and a melty cheese topping. This one-pan dish is quick to prepare, family-friendly, and nutritious, making it perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a savory, satisfying meal.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins and Vegetables

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 3 medium zucchini
  • 1 medium onion
  • 2 cloves garlic

Other Ingredients

  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (mozzarella and cheddar mix)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash the zucchini thoroughly and slice into thin rounds or half-moons for even cooking. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves to release their aroma.
  2. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 7-8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lighter.
  3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onions to the skillet with the beef and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Combine Sauce and Seasoning: Pour in the tomato sauce and sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let simmer gently for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
  5. Layer the Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and layer half the zucchini slices, then the ground beef mixture, followed by the remaining zucchini. Top evenly with shredded cheese.
  6. Bake Until Bubbly and Golden: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to set and make slicing easier.

Notes

  • Drain excess moisture from zucchini by salting slices and letting them sit before layering to prevent sogginess.
  • Use fresh herbs such as basil or parsley at the end to brighten flavors.
  • Keep zucchini slices slightly firm to maintain texture after baking.
  • Experiment with equal parts mozzarella and cheddar for best melting and flavor.
  • Use a mandoline slicer for uniform zucchini slices to ensure even cooking.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of casserole)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: ground beef casserole, zucchini casserole, healthy dinner, easy weeknight meal, one-pan casserole, low-fat casserole