Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole

Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole

Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish combining lean ground beef with fresh zucchini, aromatic onions, garlic, and tangy tomatoes, topped with melty cheese. This quick and easy casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a nutritious and balanced meal that’s low-carb and family-friendly.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef (lean or extra-lean)
  • 3 medium zucchini, sliced into thin rounds or half-moons
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
  • 1½ cups shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash the zucchini and slice into thin rounds or half-moons for even cooking. Finely chop the onion and smash the garlic cloves to release their flavors.
  2. Brown the ground beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat as needed to keep the dish light.
  3. Sauté onions and garlic: Push the beef to one side of the skillet. Add onions and garlic to the empty space and cook until onions turn translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally with the beef.
  4. Add zucchini and tomatoes: Stir in the sliced zucchini, canned diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until zucchini softens but remains slightly firm.
  5. Assemble and bake: Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Notes

  • Drain excess fat from cooked beef to prevent greasiness.
  • Use fresh zucchini, preferably young for milder flavor and less watery texture.
  • Do not overcook zucchini; it should retain some firmness for texture.
  • Try mixing cheeses like mozzarella with sharp cheddar or parmesan for more complex flavors.
  • Season generously with herbs and spices to enhance flavor.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: ground beef casserole, zucchini casserole, healthy dinner, low-carb casserole, weeknight dinner, comfort food, cheesy casserole