Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole

This Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish packed with layers of seasoned ground beef, tender zucchini, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a great way to use fresh zucchini while making a satisfying meal the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole is easy to prepare and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and hearty: A balanced meal with protein, veggies, and cheese.
• Great for meal prep: Tastes even better the next day!
• Low-carb friendly: A great alternative to pasta-based casseroles.
• Easy to customize: Add different veggies, cheeses, or seasonings to suit your taste.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Zucchini (sliced)
• Onion (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• Tomato sauce
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Cheddar cheese (shredded)
• Parmesan cheese
• Eggs
• Heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
• Olive oil or butter

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. Cook the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
3. Sauté the veggies: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 minutes. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Prepare the zucchini: Slice the zucchini into thin rounds. Lightly sauté or sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture. Pat dry.
5. Make the creamy mixture: In a bowl, whisk together eggs and heavy cream.
6. Assemble the casserole: Layer half of the zucchini slices in the baking dish, followed by half of the beef mixture. Repeat the layers. Pour the creamy mixture over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
8. Rest and serve: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 40 minutes
• Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Low-carb/keto version: Use ground turkey or chicken and a mix of zucchini and cauliflower.
• Spicy version: Add extra red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Cheesy upgrade: Try mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor.
• Extra veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for more nutrition.
• Gluten-free option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free!

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating:
  • Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative.

How do I prevent the casserole from getting watery?

Pre-salt the zucchini and pat it dry before layering to remove excess moisture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours.

What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with a side salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese and substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk.

Can I add pasta or rice?

Yes, you can add cooked pasta or rice for a heartier dish.

How do I make it extra crispy on top?

Broil for the last 2–3 minutes to get a golden, crispy cheese topping.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! Just chop and cook them down a bit before adding to the mixture.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours until tender.

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Yellow squash works just as well in this recipe.

Conclusion

This Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and hearty dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or meal prep. With its rich flavors and healthy ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a satisfying, homemade casserole!

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