Name: Meaty Zucchini Casserole With Ground Beef Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 medium zucchini, sliced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 39 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Meaty Zucchini Casserole With Ground Beef Recipe is going to be your new favorite comfort food. It’s packed with savory ground beef, tender slices of zucchini, and a gooey, golden blanket of cheese that ties everything together beautifully. Low in carbs yet high on flavor, this casserole has the perfect balance of meaty richness and fresh vegetables, making it an ideal meal to share around the dinner table any night of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a black tray on a white marbled surface holding several bowls with ingredients. In the top left is a black plate with a thick, square-shaped raw minced meat with pink and white texture. To the right, a white bowl is full of shredded white cheese with a soft texture. Below it is a small white bowl with grated pale yellow cheese. On the bottom right is another small white bowl of white creamy cheese texture, next to a white bowl with salt and pepper ground mix. In the center, a clear glass bowl contains cooked light brown quinoa grains. Below that is a white bowl with diced white onions, and to the left is a small white bowl with red tomato sauce and spices. A white bowl with sliced green zucchini rounds is on the far bottom left. A small white bowl with a clear liquid is near the top of the tray. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that each bring their own charm to the final dish. From the hearty ground beef to the delicate zucchini and melted cheeses, every component is essential for that perfect combination of texture, flavor, and color.

1½ lb ground beef: Choose a lean or medium-fat variety for rich flavor without excess grease.
1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant boost and enhances the savory notes.
4 medium zucchini, sliced: The fresh, tender slices bring moisture and a slight crunch to the layers.
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Adds acidity and a touch of sweetness that balances the savory beef.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses the dish with herby warmth.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for a gooey, stretchy topping.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory finish with a bit of sharpness.

How to Make Meaty Zucchini Casserole With Ground Beef Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and browning the ground beef along with the diced onion. This step is crucial because it builds the savory foundation of your casserole. Once the beef is cooked and no longer pink, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Season and Add Garlic

To the browned beef, add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. The garlic should be added now so it can gently bloom in the beef’s residual heat without burning. Give everything a good stir to let those seasonings meld beautifully.

Step 3: Incorporate the Tomatoes

Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and cook the mixture for an additional three minutes. This part softens the tomatoes, allowing their acidity to brighten the rich beef mixture, giving the layers more complexity in flavor.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, arrange a layer of zucchini slices first—this not only helps prevent sticking but creates a lovely base. Spoon half the beef and tomato mixture over the zucchini, then repeat with the remaining zucchini and beef. This layering will create a beautiful texture contrast in every bite.

Step 5: Add the Cheese Topping and Bake

Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top of your layered casserole. Pop it into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbling, and golden brown on top. The aromas during baking will get everyone excited to dive in.

How to Serve Meaty Zucchini Casserole With Ground Beef Recipe

Meaty Zucchini Casserole With Ground Beef Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts the warm, cheesy goodness. If you like a bit of heat, a few red pepper flakes make a spirited garnish that wakes up the palate beautifully.

Side Dishes

This casserole is hearty enough on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans complements the rich meat and cheese wonderfully. Garlic bread or a crusty loaf is also fantastic if you want to soak up any extra sauce left on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini casserole dishes or ramekins—perfect for entertaining. You can also layer the ingredients in glass baking dishes to showcase the colorful strata of zucchini and beef, making it as pretty as it is tasty.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This Meaty Zucchini Casserole With Ground Beef Recipe keeps well for up to four days, making it a convenient option for weekday meals.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole before baking or after it has cooled post-bake. Wrap it well in foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and it will last up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven until heated through and bubbly again. Adding a few extra minutes under the broiler can help revive that golden cheesy crust.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, sharp cheddar or provolone works wonderfully too, giving the casserole a different but delicious flavor profile.

Is it necessary to drain the zucchini?

Yes, lightly salting and then patting the zucchini dry helps reduce excess moisture so the casserole doesn’t become watery. This simple step keeps the texture just right.

Can I substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken?

Definitely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version of the casserole. Just keep an eye on the seasoning since these meats are milder and may need a bit more flavor.

How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Feel free to toss in extras like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to boost the veggie content and add interesting flavors and textures.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Since it’s made without breadcrumbs or wheat-based fillers, this casserole is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

If you want a comforting dinner that feels like it was made with love, try this Meaty Zucchini Casserole With Ground Beef Recipe as soon as you can. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that combines hearty flavors, cheesy delight, and the fresh goodness of zucchini in a way that’s simply irresistible. Once you taste it, it might just become your go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.

Meaty Zucchini Casserole With Ground Beef Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need