If there’s a single dish I’ll always reach for when I want comfort, flavor, and a satisfying dose of veggies, it’s this Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole. Imagine layers of golden, bubbly cheese enveloping savory ground beef, sweet zucchini, and juicy tomatoes—each bite is wholesome and deeply delicious. What truly sets this casserole apart is the way it balances hearty, cheesy goodness with the freshness of zucchini, making it perfect for family dinners, friendly gatherings, or just a regular weeknight when you crave something homey, simple, and fantastic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole comes from the harmony of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each pull their weight in flavor and texture. Trust me, every single item plays a starring role in the final dish—from the juicy tomatoes to the creamy cheese blend.
- Ground beef: Delivers hearty, savory depth and satisfying protein to the casserole.
- Onion: Builds a sweet, aromatic base that melds beautifully with the beef.
- Garlic: Adds irresistible savory notes, boosting the overall flavor profile.
- Zucchini: Brings freshness, tender texture, and a burst of color to every layer.
- Diced tomatoes: Makes the casserole juicy and tangy while keeping it light.
- Sour cream: Creates a creamy, slightly tangy layer that ties everything together (or swap for Greek yogurt if you like).
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Offers sharp flavor and melty cheesy goodness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds stretch and gooey comfort to each forkful.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a salty, golden crust that’s the perfect finishing touch.
- Italian seasoning: Infuses the dish with classic aromatic herbs that make every bite sing.
- Salt: Brings out all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the veggies.
- Black pepper: Lends gentle heat and earthy depth.
- Olive oil: Sautéing the onions and garlic brings out their best, while also preventing sticking.
How to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil or nonstick spray. This step ensures your Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole lifts out easily and all those delicious cheesy edges don’t stick to the pan.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and add your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart as you go, until it’s browned all over. Drain any excess fat for a lighter casserole.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer together for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld and the beef mixture becomes savory and robust.
Step 4: Sauté the Zucchini
In a separate pan, lightly sauté the zucchini slices for about 4 to 5 minutes. They should be just tender but not mushy. This step helps ensure your Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole doesn’t end up watery but still maintains those lovely, juicy layers.
Step 5: Assemble the Layers
In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cheddar, and mozzarella. Then, begin your casserole: layer half the sautéed zucchini on the bottom of your prepared dish, followed by all the beef mixture. Spread the cheese and sour cream mixture evenly across, then top with the remaining zucchini slices. Finally, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the very top for that irresistible crust.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 20 to 25 minutes. The top should be bubbling and deliciously golden brown. Let it cool for at least 5 minutes before serving so it holds together beautifully when sliced.
How to Serve Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Garnishes
A fresh shower of chopped parsley, a dusting of extra Parmesan, or a few bright cherry tomatoes halved on top can make the Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole look as enticing as it tastes. A sprinkle of fresh basil or chives adds a pop of color and a burst of garden flavor just before serving.
Side Dishes
While this casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, pairing it with a crisp green salad or a simple side of garlic-roasted broccoli can make for an extra-satisfying meal. Crusty bread is wonderful, too, if you’re not keeping things low carb, as it’s perfect for savoring every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming dinner party presentation, or slice it into small squares for a buffet or potluck. You can also stuff leftovers into hollowed bell peppers and re-bake for a delicious twist that’s both fun and unexpectedly delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole stores beautifully. Simply cover your baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers, and keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it rests, making for fantastic next-day lunches or easy make-ahead dinners.
Freezing
To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly in a layer of plastic and then foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a hero when you want a homemade meal in a hurry!
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 1–2 minutes until hot, or cover the whole casserole and warm in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes. If it’s looking a little dry, a fresh sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating makes it taste like it was just baked.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe if you prefer a lighter, leaner take on Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole. Just keep an eye on the seasoning, since poultry tends to need a bit more flavor boost.
What’s the best way to keep the casserole from becoming watery?
Lightly sautéing the zucchini before assembling the casserole is key. If you’re concerned about excess moisture, you can also sprinkle the sliced zucchini with a bit of salt, let it sit for 10 minutes, and then blot with paper towels before cooking.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach are great add-ins. Just sauté them before layering so they release their moisture and don’t make your casserole soggy.
Is this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?
Yes, this Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is naturally low in carbs thanks to the use of zucchini instead of pasta or potatoes, making it a great option for those eating low-carb or keto diets.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
You sure can! Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s perfect for meal prep or easy entertaining.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dinner that’s hearty, comforting, and just a tad bit lighter than your average casserole, you have to give Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole a try. I just know it’ll become a new family favorite—cheesy, meaty, satisfying, and oh-so-easy. Happy cooking!
Print
Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a delicious low-carb dish that combines savory ground beef with tender zucchini and a blend of cheeses. It’s a satisfying and comforting meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Zucchini Layer:
- 3 cups zucchini, sliced into half-moons
Cheese Mixture:
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sauté onion and garlic: In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
- Cook ground beef: Add ground beef, cook until browned, then drain excess fat.
- Combine beef mixture: Stir in diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté zucchini: Sauté zucchini until tender.
- Mix cheese: Combine sour cream, cheddar, and mozzarella.
- Layer casserole: Layer zucchini, beef mixture, cheese mixture, and repeat.
- Bake: Top with Parmesan and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden.
- Cool and serve: Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- For added crunch, top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
