Description
An easy, comforting low-carb casserole made with seasoned ground beef, tender zucchini, and melted cheese. This one-dish meal is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights while keeping carbs in check.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced or diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara sauce (low-carb)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
- Sauté Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and add diced onions. Cook until they soften, about 3 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant to enhance the flavor base.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet, cooking until it is browned thoroughly. Drain any excess fat that accumulates.
- Add Seasonings and Sauce: Stir in low-carb marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Cook Zucchini: Add the sliced or diced zucchini to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it is just slightly tender but still holds shape.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the meat and zucchini mixture into the prepared baking dish evenly.
- Add Cheese: Top the mixture evenly with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Bake uncovered in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is lightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let flavors meld and to cool slightly for easier serving.
Notes
- Salt zucchini lightly and pat dry if it releases excess moisture to avoid a watery casserole.
- Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat and extra flavor.
- Swap ground turkey for ground beef to reduce fat and calories for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Meat & Mains
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
