This tasty casserole combines ground beef and fresh zucchini in a warm, cheesy dish that’s perfect for dinner. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor!
I love how this recipe is a great way to sneak in veggies! Plus, the melting cheese on top makes it even more delicious. Who can resist seconds? 😋
Making this casserole is super simple. Just layer everything up, bake, and enjoy! It’s a quick dinner win that my whole family loves.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The star of this dish! You can use lean ground beef to reduce fat. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken is a great alternative for a lighter option without losing flavor.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a nice texture and veggie crunch. If zucchini isn’t available, try using sliced eggplant or yellow squash instead—both work well in casseroles.
Marinara Sauce: There’s nothing wrong with using store-bought for convenience! If you want a fresh taste, homemade tomato sauce works great and can be adjusted to your liking.
Cheese: While mozzarella is a classic for this dish, I also enjoy mixing in some sharp cheddar for extra flavor. Vegan cheese blends can substitute if you’re going dairy-free.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Zucchini?
Getting the zucchini just right is crucial. If overcooked, it can get mushy; undercooked, it remains crunchy. Here’s how to get it right:
- Slice zucchini evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Layer it between meat and cheese; this helps absorb moisture while baking.
- Keep an eye on your baking time! The zucchini will continue to cook as the casserole bakes, so don’t worry too much if it seems a bit firm before baking.
Easy Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy and hearty casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 35 minutes to bake. So, in about 50 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready when your casserole is assembled.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and warm it over medium heat. Add the diced onion and stir it around until it’s soft and translucent—this should take about 3-4 minutes. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells wonderful.
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, about 6-7 minutes. If there’s any extra fat in the pan, drain it out—you want your casserole to be hearty but not greasy!
4. Mix in the Sauce and Seasoning:
Stir in the marinara sauce, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, so the flavors can come together beautifully.
5. Layer the Casserole:
In a greased casserole dish, start by laying half of the sliced zucchini evenly across the bottom. Pour half of the ground beef mixture on top of the zucchini. Then, sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over that. Repeat this layering process with the remaining zucchini, beef mixture, and cheeses, creating a delicious multi-layer masterpiece!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the casserole dish with foil to keep everything moist, and bake it in your preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake it uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is nice and bubbly and starting to turn golden.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before digging in. Serve it up hot, and enjoy this comforting meal with family or friends!
FAQ: Easy Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version while maintaining that delicious flavor.
What Can I Use Instead of Marinara Sauce?
If you don’t have marinara sauce on hand, any tomato-based sauce works well. You could use spaghetti sauce, crushed tomatoes with seasonings, or even a homemade tomato sauce for a personal touch!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Just cover it with foil to prevent drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can add more flavor and nutrients. Just sauté them along with the onions before adding the beef!
