Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole: 1 Amazing Meal

Name: Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole: 1 Amazing Meal
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchini, sliced (about 2 pounds); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 pound lean ground beef; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 28 oz can diced tomatoes, drained; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

by Jannet Lisa

26 de July de 2025

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Zucchini ground beef casserole has become my go-to for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. I remember the first time I tried making a casserole without pasta, and I was a little skeptical, but this recipe blew me away! The savory seasoned beef, combined with the slightly sweet, tender zucchini and a gooey layer of melted mozzarella, creates an incredibly comforting dish. It smells amazing while it bakes, filling the kitchen with the aroma of Italian herbs. This easy zucchini and beef casserole is proof that you don’t need pasta to have a hearty and delicious meal. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole

This dish is a winner for so many reasons. Here’s why it’ll become a favorite:

Amazing Flavor: The savory ground beef and tender zucchini baked with Italian herbs and melty cheese is pure comfort food.
Quick Prep: You can have this healthy zucchini ground beef casserole ready for the oven in under 20 minutes.
Healthy Choice: It’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies, making it a truly healthy zucchini ground beef casserole option.
Budget-Friendly: Using simple, affordable ingredients makes this a great meal for any budget.
Family Approved: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, savory goodness of this ground beef and zucchini bake.
Low Carb Friendly: It’s a satisfying alternative to pasta bakes, perfect for a low carb lifestyle.
Versatile Meal: Pairs well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread.

Ingredients for Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole

Gathering these zucchini ground beef casserole ingredients is the first step to a delicious meal. The zucchini, when sliced and lightly salted, releases excess moisture, ensuring your casserole isn’t watery. The lean ground beef provides a savory base, complemented by the aromatic diced onion and minced garlic. For flavor, we’ll use classic Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Canned diced tomatoes add a touch of acidity and moisture, while the shredded mozzarella cheese creates that irresistible cheesy topping. It’s a simple list for a wonderfully satisfying zucchini casserole with ground beef.

2 medium zucchini, sliced (about 2 pounds) – slicing them thinly helps them cook evenly
1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics
1 small onion, diced – adds a foundational savory flavor
2 garlic cloves, minced – for that essential aromatic punch
1 pound lean ground beef – the hearty protein base
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs for classic flavor
½ teaspoon kosher salt – to enhance all the flavors
½ teaspoon black pepper – for a little warmth
1 28 oz can diced tomatoes, drained – adds moisture and a hint of sweetness
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – for that gooey, golden topping

How to Make Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole

Learning how to make zucchini ground beef casserole is surprisingly simple, and the results are so rewarding. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes!

Step 1: Let’s prep the zucchini. Slice your 2 medium zucchini into ½-inch rounds. Place them in a colander, sprinkle with salt, toss gently, and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial for drawing out excess moisture, which helps prevent a watery casserole.
Step 2: After the zucchini has rested, rinse it under cold water to wash off the salt. Then, thoroughly pat each slice dry with paper towels. This is a key part of how to make zucchini ground beef casserole that avoids sogginess.
Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the 1 small onion, diced, and cook for about 2 minutes until it starts to soften and become fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in the 2 garlic cloves, minced, and 1 pound lean ground beef. Cook, breaking up the beef with your spoon, until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Once the beef is cooked, stir in the 1 28 oz can diced tomatoes, drained, along with the 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Mix everything together well and remove the skillet from the heat.
Step 6: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking this delicious zucchini casserole with ground beef.
Step 7: Now, let’s assemble! Grab an 8×8-inch baking dish. Layer half of the seasoned beef mixture in the bottom. Top this with half of the prepared zucchini slices, followed by half of the 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 8: Repeat the layers with the remaining beef mixture, zucchini slices, and mozzarella cheese. You’re creating a beautiful, cheesy strata of flavors.
Step 9: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and has lovely golden-brown spots. The aroma of this bake is incredible!
Step 10: Once out of the oven, let the ground beef zucchini bake rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to cut clean portions.

Pro Tips for the Best Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole

Follow these tips to ensure your zucchini ground beef casserole is a guaranteed hit every time. I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make a big difference!

Don’t skip salting the zucchini! This step is crucial for drawing out excess moisture and preventing a watery casserole.
Pat the zucchini slices very dry after rinsing. Moisture is the enemy of a great casserole texture.
For an even richer flavor, add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese along with the mozzarella. You can find great cheese bread recipes that use similar cheeses.
Letting the casserole rest after baking allows it to set up, making it easier to slice and serve cleanly.

What’s the secret to perfect Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole?

The absolute secret to the best zucchini ground beef casserole is properly preparing the zucchini. Salting and patting it dry removes excess water, which is key to achieving a tender, not soggy, result. This simple step elevates the entire dish!

Can I make Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, you might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole?

The most common mistake is a watery casserole. To avoid this, always salt and thoroughly dry your zucchini slices. Also, be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the ground beef. For more tips on cooking, check out general cooking advice.

Best Ways to Serve Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole

This hearty zucchini ground beef casserole is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple sides. For a complete meal that’s perfect for zucchini beef casserole for dinner, I love serving it with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy casserole. Another great option is some crusty garlic bread; it’s perfect for soaking up any extra deliciousness from the dish. If you’re looking for a more substantial pairing for your ground beef zucchini bake, consider a side of roasted broccoli or green beans. You might also enjoy our Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake for another zucchini-focused meal.

Nutrition Facts for Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole

When enjoying this delicious zucchini casserole with ground beef, knowing the nutritional breakdown can be helpful. This healthy zucchini ground beef casserole is designed to be a satisfying meal.

Calories: 400
Fat: [Insert Fat Value]
Saturated Fat: [Insert Saturated Fat Value]
Protein: [Insert Protein Value]
Carbohydrates: [Insert Carbohydrate Value]
Fiber: [Insert Fiber Value]
Sugar: [Insert Sugar Value]
Sodium: [Insert Sodium Value]

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your ground beef zucchini bake.

How to Store and Reheat Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole

One of the best things about this zucchini ground beef casserole is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Once your delicious zucchini beef casserole for dinner has cooled down completely, transfer any remaining portions into an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you find yourself with an abundance and want to save it for later, it also freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. It should last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. For portions stored in the fridge, you can gently reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first. Alternatively, you can reheat directly from frozen by covering it with foil and baking at 325°F (160°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. This ensures your zucchini ground beef casserole remains flavorful and satisfying.

Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole: 1 Amazing Meal - Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole - additional detail

Frequently Asked Questions About Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole

What is zucchini ground beef casserole?

A zucchini ground beef casserole is a baked dish that layers seasoned ground beef, often with tomatoes and onions, and sliced zucchini, topped with cheese. It’s a popular low-carb alternative to traditional pasta bakes, offering a hearty and vegetable-forward meal that’s both comforting and relatively healthy.

What’s the ideal zucchini ground beef casserole cooking time?

The typical zucchini ground beef casserole cooking time is about 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This allows the cheese to melt and get golden brown, and ensures the zucchini is tender without becoming mushy. Always check for doneness; the ground beef zucchini bake is ready when bubbly and heated through.

Can I add other vegetables to my zucchini ground beef casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your healthy zucchini ground beef casserole by adding other vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Just make sure to sauté them with the onions and garlic to soften them before adding them to the beef mixture, or ensure they are cut small enough to cook through in the baking time.

How do I make sure my zucchini ground beef casserole isn’t watery?

The key to avoiding a watery zucchini casserole with ground beef is to prep the zucchini properly. Salting the sliced zucchini and letting it sit for 15 minutes draws out excess moisture. After rinsing, it’s crucial to pat the zucchini slices very dry with paper towels before layering them into the casserole dish.

Variations of Zucchini Ground Beef Casserole You Can Try

Once you master the basic zucchini ground beef casserole, you’ll find it’s incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to switch things up and keep your dinners exciting. For a truly satisfying experience, try making a cheesy zucchini ground beef casserole by adding a layer of cheddar cheese along with the mozzarella, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan on top for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken; it still makes a delicious healthy zucchini ground beef casserole. For a quicker meal, you can adapt this into a ground beef zucchini skillet casserole by cooking everything in an oven-safe skillet and finishing it under the broiler for a few minutes instead of baking, though this might require adjusting the zucchini prep slightly to ensure it cooks through. You might also enjoy our Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet for a similar flavor profile.