Rustic Hearty Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole Recipe for Cozy Nights

Comfort food reaches new heights with this zucchini ground beef casserole that combines rich flavors and wholesome ingredients.

Summer’s bounty meets savory meat in a dish that promises warmth and satisfaction.

Fresh zucchini adds a delightful texture to the robust ground beef mixture.

Layers of cheese melt into every crevice, creating a creamy and irresistible centerpiece.

The aroma will draw everyone to the kitchen, eager to dig into this hearty meal.

Each bite offers a perfect balance of vegetables and protein that feels both nostalgic and exciting.

Gather your appetite and prepare for a dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: 400 kcal

Servings: 4

Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole Ingredient Roundup

• Ground Beef: Adds hearty, rich flavor and substantial protein to create a satisfying main dish.
• Sour Cream: Brings creamy texture and tangy depth to balance the meaty flavors.

• Zucchini: Provides light, fresh texture and subtle sweetness while keeping the dish low-carb.
• Onion: Builds foundational savory base with natural sweetness when cooked.
• Garlic: Delivers robust, intense flavor that enhances overall dish complexity.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture and bright, acidic notes to complement the meat.
• Tomato Sauce: Creates smooth, rich sauce base that binds ingredients together.

• Salt: Amplifies and balances all ingredient flavors.
• Black Pepper: Introduces gentle heat and aromatic complexity.
• Italian Seasoning: Provides herbal, Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Paprika: Contributes subtle smoky undertone and beautiful reddish color.
• Olive Oil: Helps prevent sticking and adds smooth, fruity undertone.
• Cheddar Cheese: Offers sharp, tangy melting quality.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Provides stretchy, mild creamy texture.
• Fresh Parsley or Basil: Brings fresh, bright finishing garnish with herbal notes.

Tools for Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole

• Large skillet: Essential for browning ground beef and sautéing vegetables.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect for assembling and baking the casserole.
• Cutting board: Needed for chopping zucchini, onions, and herbs.
• Sharp knife: Used for precise vegetable and herb preparation.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring and breaking up ground beef.
• Measuring spoons: Helps accurately add seasonings.
• Cheese grater: Optional, if using block cheese instead of pre-shredded.
• Oven mitts: Necessary for safely handling hot baking dish.

How to Prepare Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole

• Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 375°F and give a quick spray of cooking oil to a 9×13 baking dish.

• Brown the Meat

Sizzle ground beef in a skillet, breaking it into tiny pieces until it turns a rich golden color.

• Add Flavor Boosters

Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic, letting them dance and release their amazing aromas.

• Bring in the Zucchini

Fold in zucchini slices with a sprinkle of seasonings, letting everything mingle and soften.

• Create the Creamy Sauce

Stir in tomatoes, sauce, and a dollop of sour cream to create a luscious, rich mixture.

• Layer and Top

Pour the hearty mixture into the prepared dish, then shower it with a blanket of melty cheeses.

• Bake to Perfection

Pop the casserole into the oven and let it bubble and brown for about 20 minutes.

• Final Touch

Let the dish rest briefly, then garnish with fresh herbs and serve alongside your favorite companions.

Tweak & Upgrade Zucchini Beef Casserole

• Quick Cooking Tricks: Use a meat thermometer to ensure ground beef reaches safe 160°F internal temperature.
• Zucchini Moisture Management: Pat zucchini slices with paper towels to remove excess water and prevent soggy casserole.
• Low-Carb Friendly Twist: Replace traditional cheese with dairy-free alternatives and serve over cauliflower rice for keto diet compatibility.
• Freezer-Friendly Hack: Prepare entire casserole, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze unbaked for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
• Vegetarian Transformation: Swap ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils to create a delicious meatless version that maintains rich, hearty flavors.

Serve Up Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole

• Hearty Family Meal Companion: Pair this casserole with a crisp garden salad dressed in light vinaigrette for a balanced and refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy dish.
• Bread Lovers' Delight: Serve alongside warm, crusty garlic bread or toasted French baguette slices to soak up the delicious tomato and beef sauce.
• Low-Carb Side Option: Create a fresh cucumber and tomato salad with herbs and lemon juice for a light, zesty accompaniment that complements the casserole's robust flavors.
• Protein Power Plate: Add a small portion of quinoa or cauliflower rice for extra nutrients and a complete meal that satisfies without feeling heavy.

How to Store Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole

• Refrigerator Revival: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days, keeping the casserole's flavors fresh and textures intact. Reheat gently in the oven at 350F to maintain its delicious crispy cheese topping.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours before baking, covering and refrigerating until ready to cook. This technique saves time and allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Freezer-Friendly Option: Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, storing it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
• Portion and Pack: Divide cooled casserole into individual servings for quick grab-and-go lunches. These single portions reheat perfectly in the microwave, providing a convenient meal solution for busy weekdays.

Hearty Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole

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• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Hearty zucchini ground beef casserole brings comfort and flavor to family dinner tables. Cheesy layers combine garden-fresh vegetables with savory meat, creating a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb (454 g) ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• 1 (14.5 oz/411 g) can diced tomatoes, drained
• ½ cup tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika
• Fresh parsley or basil
• Red pepper flakes for spice

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Ignite the oven to 375F (190C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray for seamless release.
2. Meat Foundation: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and crumble ground beef, transforming it into a golden-brown canvas while breaking into delicate morsels.
3. Aromatic Infusion: Introduce finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they release their intoxicating fragrance and meld with the caramelized meat.
4. Vegetable Integration: Incorporate zucchini slices, seasoning with salt, pepper, Italian herbs, and a whisper of paprika, gently coaxing the vegetable to a tender state.
5. Sauce Creation: Stream in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, swirling in a dollop of sour cream to craft a luxuriously creamy and harmonious mixture.
6. Layering and Cheese Cascade: Transfer the savory ensemble to the prepared baking dish, distributing evenly, then lavishly crown with a blizzard of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
7. Baking and Resting: Slide the casserole into the preheated oven, baking uncovered until the cheese transforms into a molten, golden blanket, then permit the dish a brief moment of repose.
8. Finishing Flourish: Adorn with freshly chopped parsley or basil, adding a vibrant burst of color and herbaceous essence, and serve alongside crusty bread, fluffy rice, or a crisp salad for a complete culinary experience.

Notes

• Optimize Meat Browning: Ensure ground beef is completely dry before cooking to achieve a perfect golden-brown color and develop deep, rich flavors without steaming.
• Control Moisture Levels: Zucchini releases water during cooking, so pat slices dry and avoid overcrowding the skillet to prevent a watery casserole.
• Cheese Melting Technique: Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and more even coverage, avoiding pre-shredded varieties that contain anti-caking agents.
• Dietary Adaptation: Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for lighter versions, and use lactose-free cheese for dairy-sensitive diets.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg