Ground beef zucchini casserole is a cozy dish that brings the flavors of home-cooked comfort right to your dinner table. low carb egg roll bowl The rich aroma of savory ground beef mingles with tender zucchini, making your kitchen smell like a hug on a plate.
This recipe takes me back to family gatherings where everyone piled their plates high, and laughter filled the air. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave something hearty and satisfying.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This ground beef zucchini casserole is a one-pan wonder that’s easy to prepare. Bursting with flavor, it’s a great way to sneak in veggies for the kids. The vibrant colors bring life to your dinner table, and it’s versatile enough for leftovers or meal prep. [/info_box]
I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely had a chance to grab seconds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but don’t skimp on flavor.
Zucchini: Choose firm zucchinis; they should feel heavy for their size to ensure freshness.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; chop it finely for even cooking. twice baked sweet potatoes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they give the casserole an aromatic kick.
Cheddar Cheese: Grate fresh cheese for the best meltability and flavor; who doesn’t love cheesy goodness? cheddar and herb soda bread.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs elevates the flavor profile; don’t be shy with this!
Crushed Tomatoes: Opt for canned crushed tomatoes for convenience and rich taste.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it adds depth to the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors—don’t forget these!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients and preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Chop onions, garlic, and zucchini while enjoying their fragrant aromas.
Sauté Aromatics and Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté chopped onions until translucent, then add minced garlic until fragrant.
Add Ground Beef: Toss in the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir occasionally, breaking up clumps with a spatula until no pink remains.
Incorporate Zucchini and Tomatoes: Add chopped zucchini and crushed tomatoes along with Italian seasoning. Simmer everything together for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables soften slightly.
Layer with Cheese: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish. Top generously with grated cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt beautifully in the oven.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Enjoy watching the cheese bubble!
This ground beef zucchini casserole will impress everyone around your dinner table! For more inspiration, check out this ultimate tater tot casserole recipe.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Ground beef zucchini casserole is a one-pot wonder that brings comfort and flavor together. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, and the leftovers are even better the next day. The vibrant colors and hearty aromas will make your kitchen feel like a warm embrace. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef first; this adds depth to the dish. While it’s cooking, chop the zucchini and prepare your seasonings to save time and ensure everything cooks evenly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out zucchini for other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. Experiment with spices such as Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for added flavor twists that suit your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth for moisture if needed.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Always drain excess fat after browning the beef to prevent a greasy casserole. Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley to elevate flavors significantly. Make sure to slice zucchini evenly for uniform cooking throughout the dish. [/info_box]
I once made this ground beef zucchini casserole for a potluck, and I still remember my aunt’s rave reviews. She claimed it was “the best comfort food” she had ever tasted, which definitely boosted my culinary confidence! For more inspiration, check out this cheesy loaded meatloaf casserole recipe.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey makes for a lighter version of this delicious casserole. delicious tater tot casserole.
What can I serve with ground beef zucchini casserole?
Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal experience.
How long does it take to cook the casserole?
It typically takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, including prep time.
Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a delightful one-pan dish that combines savory ground beef with tender zucchini, making it the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Bursting with flavor and vibrant colors, this casserole is not only satisfying but also a sneaky way to get veggies into your family’s diet. Perfect for meal prep and leftovers, it’s sure to impress at any gathering.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sauté onions until translucent, then add garlic until fragrant.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
- Stir in chopped zucchini, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with grated cheddar cheese, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added variety, substitute zucchini with bell peppers or mushrooms. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika for an extra flavor twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat with a splash of broth for moisture.
