Description
This Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole is a hearty, comforting baked dish combining fresh zucchini and savory ground beef layered with tomato sauce, herbs, and melty cheese. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or meal prepping, it balances wholesome vegetables with rich flavors and a delightful texture. Easy to customize and simple to prepare, it’s a versatile comfort food that satisfies and nourishes.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular, based on preference)
- 3 medium zucchini, washed and sliced into thin rounds or half-moons
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, freshly minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar recommended)
- 1 tsp Italian herbs (blend of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Wash and slice the zucchini into thin rounds or half-moons; finely chop the onion and mince the garlic to ensure even cooking and a well-blended casserole.
- Cook the ground beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onions and minced garlic until fully cooked and fragrant. Drain excess fat, then stir in tomato sauce, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful filling.
- Layer the casserole: Grease a baking dish. Begin with a layer of zucchini slices at the bottom, spread half of the beef mixture evenly over the zucchini, then add another layer of zucchini followed by the remaining beef mixture. Finish with a generous sprinkling of shredded cheese on top.
- Bake until bubbly and golden: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned on top, indicating it is ready to serve.
Notes
- Salt zucchini slices lightly and let them sit before assembling to drain excess moisture and prevent a watery casserole.
- Use fresh ground beef with appropriate fat content for richer flavor.
- Layer zucchini and beef mixture evenly for balanced bites throughout.
- Choose a melty cheese blend with good stretch for the best comforting texture.
- Allow casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking to set and make slicing easier.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of casserole)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg