Description
This Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole is a wholesome and satisfying one-pan meal featuring fresh zucchini and lean ground beef. Easy to prepare and full of balanced nutrition, it combines savory meat and vegetables in a comforting baked dish topped with melty cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, it offers adaptable flavors and leftovers that reheat beautifully.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds or half-moons
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Wash and slice the zucchinis into thin rounds or half-moons for even cooking. Dice the onion and mince the garlic so all ingredients are ready for cooking.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the casserole light.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the browned beef. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant, which helps infuse the meat with rich flavor.
- Combine Zucchini and Tomatoes: Stir in the sliced zucchini and the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the zucchinis soften and the flavors meld together.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, then evenly top with shredded cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps it set and hold its shape for easier serving and enhanced flavor in every bite.
Notes
- Drain any excess liquid released by zucchini to avoid a soggy casserole.
- Use fresh vegetables and seasonings for the best flavor.
- Do not overbake; cook just until cheese melts and bubbles to maintain texture.
- Sauté onions and garlic thoroughly to build depth of flavor.
- Use lean ground beef for a less greasy, healthier dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg