Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is like a warm hug from your oven. Picture layers of savory ground beef, tender zucchini, and gooey cheese all mingling together, creating a symphony of flavor that dances on your taste buds. low carb egg roll bowl This dish doesn’t just satisfy hunger; it wraps you in nostalgia, reminding you of family dinners where everyone gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter.
Every time I whip up this delightful casserole, memories flood back of my mother’s kitchen, where she would expertly layer ingredients while we kids eagerly awaited our serving. cozy tater tot casserole The aroma wafting through the house was irresistible, making it the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings or casual get-togethers with friends.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze. With its rich flavor profile of beef and melty cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The vibrant green zucchini slices add a pop of color that looks stunning on any dinner table. Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or spices, this dish fits all occasions! [/info_box]
I once made this casserole for a potluck, and let’s just say my friends were fighting over the last bite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish hearty without excess grease.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds both flavor and nutrition; choose firm ones for the best texture.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the aroma; feel free to add more if you love garlic!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar melts beautifully; mix sharp and mild for a balanced taste.
Tomato Sauce: Use your favorite marinara or homemade sauce for richness; canned works well in a pinch.
Dried Oregano and Basil: These herbs bring an Italian flair; fresh options can also be used if available. herb soda bread.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.
Sauté the Meat and Veggies: In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the meat browns and onions become translucent. Enjoy the fragrant aroma filling your kitchen!
Add Zucchini Slices: Stir in sliced zucchini along with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Cook until zucchini softens slightly—about five minutes—creating that beautiful medley of flavors.
Layer the Casserole Dish: In a greased baking dish, spread half of the meat mixture as your base. Then pour half of the tomato sauce over it before layering half of the cheddar cheese on top.
Repeat Layers: Add another layer using the remaining meat mixture followed by tomato sauce and finish with an ample layer of cheese. You can never have too much cheese!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Cover with foil and bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden on top—your kitchen will smell divine.
Enjoying Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is not just about satisfying hunger but relishing every bite filled with memories! Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends, this dish is sure to impress while being easy enough for weeknight meals! For more inspiration, check out this Ground Beef and Potatoes Casserole recipe.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Ground beef zucchini casserole is a hearty meal that combines flavor and nutrition. The dish’s vibrant colors and aromas fill your kitchen with warmth, making it a family favorite. This recipe is perfect for using up those extra zucchinis lying around the kitchen.[/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef to infuse rich flavor, then layer in sautéed zucchini and seasonings for the best taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different ground meats or add spices like cumin and paprika for an exciting twist on this classic dish. classic French ratatouille.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Always drain excess fat from the ground beef for a leaner casserole. Use fresh zucchini for better texture and flavor. Let the casserole sit before serving; it helps flavors blend beautifully! [/info_box]
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; they devoured it! My aunt even asked for seconds, which never happens!
FAQ
Can I use frozen zucchini in this casserole?
Frozen zucchini can become mushy; fresh zucchini is recommended for better texture.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based meat alternative.
How long does it take to cook this casserole?
It typically takes about 30-35 minutes to bake at 350°F until bubbly and golden brown.
Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a heartwarming dish that combines layers of savory ground beef, fresh zucchini, and melted cheese, making it the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for any occasion, this easy-to-make casserole will bring back memories of family dinners while satisfying your cravings. With its rich flavors and vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress at gatherings or cozy weeknight meals.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion and minced garlic until cooked through.
- Stir in sliced zucchini, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper; cook for about 5 minutes until zucchini softens.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the meat mixture, half of the tomato sauce, and half of the cheddar cheese. Repeat layers.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 casserole (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider using different ground meats such as turkey or chicken. Feel free to customize with additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
