Savory Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole Recipe You’ll Love

Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole is the kind of dish that warms your soul and makes your taste buds tap dance. Imagine a melty blend of savory ground beef, tender zucchini, and gooey cheese all piled together in a cozy casserole. It’s like a warm hug after a long day, the kind that you didn’t know you needed until the first bite hits your palate, leaving you begging for more.

Now, let me take you back to a time when my culinary skills were still in their infancy—much like a baby bird learning to fly. My mother made this Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole on chilly Sunday evenings while we huddled around the table, laughter and stories swirling through the air as rich aromas filled our home. Fast forward to today: I’m now the one whipping up this comforting dish, perfect for family gatherings or simply a cozy night in with Netflix. And trust me, every forkful promises an explosion of flavor that’ll leave you craving leftovers.

Ingredients for Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish flavorful without being too greasy.

• Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds moisture and nutrition; choose firm ones without blemishes.

• Onion: A medium onion will provide sweetness and depth of flavor; chop it finely for even distribution.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the flavor; use minced garlic for an aromatic kick.

• Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes bring acidity and balance; opt for low-sodium versions if desired.

• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a melty layer of goodness; feel free to mix cheeses for variety!

• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs enhances the overall flavor profile; adjust based on preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent any sticking disasters later.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir occasionally until the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Toss in sliced zucchini and canned tomatoes into your skillet. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning and stir everything together. Allow it to simmer for about five minutes until the zucchini starts to soften.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer half of your beef mixture into your greased baking dish. Layer half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top, followed by the remaining beef mixture and finish with another layer of cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Cover your casserole with aluminum foil (avoiding contact with cheese) and bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 6: Serve

Let it cool slightly before serving. Transfer generous portions onto plates and enjoy your satisfying creation!

This Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole is not just food; it’s an experience wrapped in warmth and nostalgia that brings families together at dinner tables everywhere!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet to develop flavor, then toss in chopped zucchini and onions. While those sauté, prepare your delicious sauce mixture. Finally, layer everything in a casserole dish and bake until bubbly perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken if you prefer leaner options. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar, or add spices like paprika or Italian seasoning for an extra flavor kick!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot.

Sometimes, I whip up this casserole when friends come over for game night. Their faces light up when they take that first bite—it’s my secret weapon for fun evenings!

FAQs:

What is a Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole?

A Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that combines ground beef with fresh zucchini, tomatoes, and cheese. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. It’s packed with flavor and nutrients, making it an excellent way to enjoy vegetables while satisfying your meat cravings. This casserole is easy to prepare and can be customized with various spices or additional veggies.

How do I store leftovers of Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole?

To store leftovers of your Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months.

Can I make Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make your Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole ahead of time. Prepare the dish as instructed but do not bake it right away. Instead, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake until bubbly and golden brown.

What are some variations for Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole?

There are many delicious variations you can try with your Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole. For a healthier twist, substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken. You can also add other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance flavor and texture. For a spicy kick, include jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. Experimenting with different types of cheese can also change the taste profile significantly.

Conclusion for Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole:

In conclusion, the Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole is a versatile dish that combines wholesome ingredients into one flavorful meal. With its easy preparation and customization options, this casserole caters to various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe offers both convenience and satisfaction. Enjoy this delightful casserole as part of your culinary repertoire!

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Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole

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Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole is a delightful comfort food that combines savory ground beef, fresh zucchini, and melty cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make dish brings warmth and nostalgia to your dinner table, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. With its hearty flavors and satisfying textures, this casserole will quickly become a favorite.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 medium zucchini, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic for about 7-10 minutes until cooked through; drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Add the sliced zucchini and diced tomatoes along with Italian seasoning; simmer for 5 minutes until the zucchini softens.
4. Layer half of the beef mixture in the greased baking dish followed by half of the cheese. Repeat layers.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken. Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor. Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.