Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

Ground beef zucchini casserole is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef with tender zucchini, layered with tomatoes and melted cheese. This hearty meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re planning meals ahead. Everyone in the family will appreciate its comforting taste and wholesome ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This casserole comes together quickly, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Low Carb Delight: Perfect for low-carb diets, it offers all the satisfaction without the extra carbs.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy layers and savory meat, it’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this casserole in advance and simply bake it when you’re ready to eat.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious ground beef zucchini casserole, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking dish (8×8)
• Colander or sieve
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet is crucial for browning the ground beef evenly, enhancing its flavor.
• Baking Dish: Using an 8×8 baking dish ensures even cooking and layering of ingredients for perfect presentation.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 2 medium zucchini, sliced (about 2 pounds)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 28 ounce can diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

How to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

1. Slice the zucchini into 1/2 rounds. Place them in a colander over the sink or a bowl and sprinkle with salt, tossing to coat.
2. Let the salted zucchini sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
3. Rinse well under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Mixture

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onions and cook until they begin to soften, about 2 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and lean ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned with no trace of pink, around 5 minutes.
4. Stir in drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In an 8×8 baking dish, spread half of the ground beef mixture on the bottom.
3. Layer half of the sliced zucchini on top of the beef mixture followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
4. Repeat these layers with the remaining meat mixture, zucchini slices, and cheese.

Step 4: Bake Your Casserole

1. Place your assembled casserole in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until cheese is melted and beginning to brown.
3. Allow your casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your hearty ground beef zucchini casserole!

How to Serve Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

Ground beef zucchini casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together, here are some serving suggestions to consider.

With Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A simple mix of lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness and crunch.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons complement the casserole’s richness.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the casserole.
• Crusty French Bread: A slice of French bread can help soak up the delicious juices from the dish.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan can add an extra layer of flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese: For those who love cheese, adding shredded cheddar on top before serving gives it a nice twist.

Fun Serving Options

• In Individual Portions: Serve in small ramekins for a charming presentation at gatherings.
• With Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top can balance the flavors beautifully.

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How to Perfect Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

To achieve the best results with your ground beef zucchini casserole, follow these helpful tips. These tricks can make your dish even more delicious and satisfying.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh zucchini and high-quality ground beef will enhance the flavors significantly.
• Layer Carefully: Layering your ingredients evenly ensures every bite has a balanced taste.
• Don’t Skip Salting the Zucchini: This step helps remove excess moisture, preventing a watery casserole.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust Italian seasoning or add other spices like paprika for extra flavor.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes helps it set and makes it easier to cut into portions.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

Pairing your ground beef zucchini casserole with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this hearty dish well.

1. Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable adds color and nutrients to your plate.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The crispy edges and tender centers bring out great flavors when roasted.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm casserole.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing offers healthy grains alongside the meatiness of the casserole.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can serve as a comforting side that many love.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Grilled asparagus adds a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with rich casseroles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making ground beef zucchini casserole, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Avoid these mistakes to ensure your casserole turns out delicious every time.

• Skipping the salting step: Not salting the zucchini can lead to a watery casserole. Always salt the zucchini and let it rest to draw out excess moisture.
• Using lean ground beef: While lean meat is healthier, it might not provide enough fat for flavor. Choose a blend of lean and regular ground beef for a richer taste.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the zucchini too long before baking can make it mushy. Just sauté until slightly tender; it will cook more in the oven.
• Laying ingredients too thick: Piling on too much of any layer can lead to an uneven cook. Ensure even layers of beef, zucchini, and cheese for consistent results.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the casserole right away can cause it to fall apart. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving for better slices.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover ground beef zucchini casserole in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

• Wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered with foil until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Reheat individual portions on medium power for about 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this ground beef zucchini casserole, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries answered.

Can I use other vegetables in Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole?

Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra veggies and flavor.

Is Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is low in carbs and high in protein, making it a nutritious option for dinner.

How do I store leftovers of Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I prepare Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it a day before and store it covered in the fridge. Just bake when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Ground beef zucchini casserole is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize this recipe with different vegetables or cheeses based on your family’s tastes. Give this easy weeknight meal a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!

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Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

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• Author: Vera
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a comforting and nutritious dish that brings together savory ground beef, tender zucchini, and gooey melted cheese, all baked to perfection. This hearty casserole is not only easy to make but also low in carbs, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prep. With versatile ingredients and a simple preparation process, this dish caters to the whole family’s taste buds while keeping dinner stress-free. Enjoy it with your favorite salad or crusty bread for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 medium zucchini (about 2 pounds), sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice zucchini into rounds and salt them in a colander for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture; rinse and pat dry.
3. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Sauté onions until softened, then add garlic and ground beef; cook until browned.
4. Stir in drained tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; remove from heat.
5. In an 8×8 baking dish, layer half of the meat mixture, half of the zucchini slices, and half of the cheese. Repeat layers.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 366
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 690mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Experiment with additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor. For a spicier kick, consider incorporating red pepper flakes into the meat mixture.