Name: Meaty Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups tomato sauce; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt & pepper; 3 medium zucchini, sliced ¼ inch thick; 1 cup mozzarella cheese; ½ cup Parmesan

Jump to Recipe·5 from 27 reviews

If you’re craving a cozy, filling meal that’s as nutritious as it is comforting, look no further than this Meaty Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef. This dish pairs juicy zucchini layers with a rich ground beef and tomato sauce, all tucked beneath plenty of bubbling cheese. It’s a fantastic low-carb alternative to classic casseroles, married beautifully with Italian flavors. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this satisfying bake will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.

Meaty Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Meaty Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef lies in its straightforward list of ingredients. Each one has an important role to play: from adding savoriness and depth to providing that signature cheesy pull everyone loves in a casserole. Don’t skip or substitute these core components for the best results!

Ground Beef (1 lb): Go for 80/20 for the juiciest, most flavorful meat layer—leaner works too, if you prefer.
Onion, chopped (1): Offers sweet, aromatic undertones that elevate the beef beautifully.
Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Adds a delightful punch and pairs perfectly with Italian seasoning.
Tomato Sauce (2 cups): The sturdy, tangy base that ties all the layers together and keeps the casserole moist.
Zucchini, sliced 1/4 inch thick (3 medium): Tender and mild, zucchini becomes almost lasagna-like after baking.
Mozzarella Cheese, shredded (1 cup): Melts to gooey perfection and creates that irresistible casserole top.
Parmesan Cheese, grated (1/2 cup): Adds salty, nutty notes for added depth of flavor.
Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): Brings classic Mediterranean flair and aroma to the whole dish.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for lifting and balancing all the flavors—season to your liking!

How to Make Meaty Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef

Step 1: Brown the Beef with Onion and Garlic

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook everything, stirring and breaking up the beef, until the meat is browned and the onions are tender. This step builds a savory base, so don’t rush it—the richer the caramelization, the more flavorful your casserole will be. Make sure to drain off any excess fat before proceeding.

Step 2: Build the Tomato Sauce

With your beef and aromatic mixture cooked, stir in the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly. This beefy, herbed sauce is the defining heart of Meaty Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef.

Step 3: Slice the Zucchini

While the sauce simmers, slice your zucchini into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Uniform thickness is key—they’ll cook evenly and stack neatly. If your zucchini are particularly watery, pat them dry with a towel to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Grab a baking dish and layer half the sliced zucchini over the bottom, slightly overlapping. Spoon half the beef sauce over this foundation, then sprinkle with half each of the mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat with the remaining zucchini, sauce, and cheeses. These layers combine to form a texture that’s reminiscent of lasagna—if you want it even creamier, spoon in small dollops of ricotta between layers for a delightful twist!

Step 5: Bake It!

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Slide in your assembled casserole and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly and the zucchini tender when pierced with a fork. If you love a brown crust, broil for a few extra minutes at the end—but keep an eye on it!

How to Serve Meaty Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef

Garnishes

This casserole shines with just a touch of extra freshness. Try a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley for a color pop and a hint of garden flavor. For even more indulgence, add another dusting of Parmesan cheese right before serving—a little goes a long way.

Side Dishes

Meaty Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef is lovely on its own, but it also plays well with others. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette, garlic bread (for those not counting carbs), or simple roasted vegetables all make fantastic partners for this main dish, rounding out the meal and adding crunch or tang.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation makes any dinner feel special! Try baking mini casseroles in individual ramekins for a dinner party, or cut squares and pile them high on a platter, garnished with lots of herbs. For a quick lunch, stuff scoops of reheated casserole into halved, roasted bell peppers—unexpected and oh-so-tasty!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Meaty Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to four days, and honestly, the flavors get even better as they settle and mingle in the fridge.

Freezing

This casserole is a freezer-friendly miracle meal. Slice into portions, wrap tightly or use freezer containers, and freeze for up to two months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture—no sogginess, just deliciousness.

Reheating

To reheat, pop leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely, or rewarm in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly again. If reheating a whole frozen casserole, allow it to thaw first, cover with foil, and bake until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner substitute that works perfectly. Just add a splash of olive oil during browning to prevent dryness, and season generously to build that savory base.

My zucchini is really watery. What can I do?

If your zucchini tends to release too much moisture, give the slices a quick sprinkle of salt and let them rest on paper towels for 10–15 minutes. Pat dry before layering and you’ll avoid a soggy casserole.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! The Meaty Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef is naturally low in carbs and gluten-free as long as your tomato sauce and seasoning are free from any hidden gluten.

Can I assemble this casserole in advance?

You sure can. Assemble everything up to a day ahead, cover with foil, and keep in the fridge until ready to bake. It’s perfect for meal prepping or entertaining guests with minimal last-minute fuss.

What cheeses can I swap in if I don’t have mozzarella?

Provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a mild cheddar can fill in if mozzarella is missing—each brings a unique melt and flavor. Don’t skip the Parmesan though; its sharpness is key to the classic finish.

Final Thoughts

Try making this Meaty Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef the next time you’re in the mood for something hearty, wholesome, and totally crave-worthy. It’s a family-friendly recipe that checks all the boxes for flavor, comfort, and ease—so why not give it a go and make room for a new classic at your table?