There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole. Picture this: layers of tender zucchini, seasoned ground beef, and gooey cheese melded together in harmonious bliss. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table in anticipation. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
- How can I make my ground beef zucchini casserole spicier?
- What sides go well with ground beef zucchini casserole?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish isn’t just for dinner; it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for potlucks, family gatherings, or when you simply want to impress your dinner guests with minimal effort. Trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its hearty flavor will satisfy even the pickiest eaters while keeping things healthy
- The vibrant colors from fresh vegetables make it visually appealing on any table
- You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or seasonings for a personal twist
I still remember the first time I made this dish; my friend walked in and exclaimed, “Did you just open a restaurant?” It was a proud moment that I’ll cherish forever.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Choose lean beef to keep the casserole flavorful without excess fat.
Zucchini: Fresh and firm zucchinis add moisture and texture; avoid ones with soft spots.
Cheddar Cheese: A generous amount of shredded cheddar creates that irresistible gooey topping.
Onion: A medium onion, diced finely adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves infuse the dish with aromatic goodness; don’t skimp here!
Tomato Sauce: Use canned tomato sauce for convenience; it adds moisture and tanginess.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs enhances the overall flavor; feel free to adjust according to preference.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add that delightful crunch on top; they toast beautifully in the oven.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat but leave a little for flavor.
Next up, toss in diced onions and minced garlic into the skillet. Sauté them until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks!
Now it’s time for the star of the show: zucchini! Slice them thinly and add them directly into the skillet with cooked beef. Stir well until everything is combined. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until zucchinis are tender but not mushy.
Pour in your tomato sauce along with Italian seasoning while mixing everything gently together. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes so those flavors can mingle happily.
Transfer this mixture into a greased baking dish. Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese followed by panko breadcrumbs for that satisfying crunch. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Let it cool slightly before serving—trust me; this dish is like molten lava right out of the oven! Serve warm while savoring every cheesy bite alongside a crisp salad or crusty bread.
And there you have it—your very own Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole! It’s easy enough for any night but delicious enough to impress on special occasions!
You Must Know
- Ground beef zucchini casserole is a fantastic one-pan meal, combining flavors and textures in a delicious embrace
- The juicy beef mingles with tender zucchini, creating a hearty dish that’s both comforting and nutritious
- It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet, then add onions and garlic for flavor. Next, stir in diced zucchini and tomatoes, letting them cook together for a few minutes before adding seasonings. This sequence ensures all ingredients meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You can also experiment with spices like smoked paprika or Italian herbs to elevate the flavor profile. Add cheese on top for a gooey finish that everyone will love.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until warmed thoroughly, ensuring you don’t dry it out. A sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving can brighten it up!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always drain excess fat from the ground beef to keep your casserole from becoming greasy
- Use firm zucchinis; soft ones will turn mushy during cooking
- Don’t skip the cheese topping; it adds an irresistible creamy texture and flavor!
Creating this casserole reminds me of those chaotic family gatherings where everyone’s rushing around, but somehow we still end up sharing a good laugh over delicious food.
FAQ
Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
Yes, but fresh zucchini gives better texture and flavor in casseroles.
How can I make my ground beef zucchini casserole spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to increase the heat.
What sides go well with ground beef zucchini casserole?
Serve with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for balance and freshness.
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a delightful comfort food that combines seasoned ground beef, fresh zucchini, and gooey cheddar cheese into a satisfying dish. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or gathering with family and friends. With layers of flavor and texture, it’s sure to impress your dinner guests and leave them wanting more.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until onions are translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in sliced zucchini and cook for an additional 5 minutes until tender.
- Mix in tomato sauce and Italian seasoning, simmering for 5 minutes.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar followed by panko breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole (approximately 210g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
