Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together seasoned ground beef, tender zucchini, and a melty layer of cheese, all baked together to perfection. It’s a great way to enjoy a low-carb meal that’s full of flavor, and the best part is, it’s quick and easy to make. This casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner, and it’s packed with nutrients from the zucchini, making it both satisfying and healthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is an incredibly flavorful, one-pan dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. The ground beef gives it a savory richness, while the zucchini keeps it light and full of vitamins. With a melty cheese topping, this casserole is a great way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying your taste buds. It’s also versatile – you can easily adjust the seasoning to your liking and use whatever cheese you have on hand. Plus, it’s a make-ahead recipe that’s perfect for meal prep!

Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
2 medium zucchinis, sliced thinly
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the zucchini: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside. Slice the zucchinis into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick.
Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Add the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is soft and fragrant. Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. If you like a little spice, add red pepper flakes. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
Assemble the casserole: Layer half of the sliced zucchini at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the zucchini. Repeat the layers, adding the remaining zucchini slices and then the rest of the beef mixture.
Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the zucchini is tender.
Serve: Once the casserole is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 6 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Add More Veggies: You can add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach, to the casserole for added flavor and nutrition.
Use Ground Turkey: For a leaner option, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
Add Cheese Variations: Use a blend of cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a bit of feta for a different flavor profile.
Make It Spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Low-Carb Option: If you’re following a low-carb diet, skip the tomatoes and use a low-carb marinara sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh zucchini for this recipe as frozen zucchini tends to release a lot of water when cooked. If you only have frozen zucchini, be sure to thaw and drain it well before using it in the casserole.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time since the casserole will be cold.

3. How do I prevent the zucchini from getting too soggy?

Slicing the zucchini thinly and layering it in the casserole will allow it to cook evenly without releasing too much water. You can also sprinkle a small amount of salt on the zucchini slices before assembling the casserole to draw out excess moisture.

4. Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?

Yes! Layer the zucchini, beef mixture, and cheese in the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours. This will result in a softer texture, but still delicious!

5. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake according to the recipe instructions.

6. Can I make this casserole without cheese?

Yes, you can omit the cheese for a dairy-free version. For added flavor, you can top it with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil before baking.

7. Can I use a different grain instead of rice or orzo?

Yes, you can substitute with quinoa, couscous, or any other small grain you prefer.

8. Can I add more sauce to this casserole?

Yes, if you prefer a saucier casserole, you can add more tomatoes or a small can of tomato sauce to the beef mixture for extra moisture and flavor.

9. Can I serve this casserole with a salad?

Absolutely! This casserole pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete, well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a comforting and healthy dish that brings together tender ground beef, fresh zucchini, and melted cheese in one easy-to-make casserole. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, and it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables while enjoying a hearty, satisfying meal. Whether you’re making it for your family or serving it at a gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.