Description
This Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a hearty and wholesome dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef, fresh zucchinis, and gooey cheese, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 3 medium zucchinis sliced into rounds
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2–3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the zucchini rounds at the bottom.
- Spread half of the beef mixture over the zucchini.
- Add half of the ricotta cheese (if using) and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layers, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot.
Notes
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for additional flavor. Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 casserole
- Calories: 335 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole, Ground Beef, Zucchini, Casserole Recipe, Easy Dinner Recipe