This easy ground beef zucchini casserole is a yummy dish that’s great for busy nights! It has layers of tasty beef, melty cheese, and tender zucchini, all baked to perfection.
You won’t believe how simple it is to make! I just mix everything together and let the oven do the magic. It’s a family favorite at my house, and leftovers are even better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This dish shines with lean ground beef for flavor. You can substitute it with turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or use plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a vegetarian version.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are key for this recipe. If you’re out of zucchini, try eggplant or thin slices of yellow squash as a tasty alternative!
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess. If you don’t have it, cottage cheese works well too. For a dairy-free version, consider using a vegan ricotta or blended tofu.
Marinara Sauce: Any pasta sauce works, but homemade sauce can elevate the flavors. If you want a lighter option, try using a tomato-based salsa.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is a must for that gooey texture, but feel free to mix in cheddar for a different flavor. If you’re dairy-free, there are great plant-based cheese options available.
How Can I Make Sure the Zucchini is Well-Cooked?
Cooking zucchini properly is key to avoiding a watery casserole. Here are some steps to ensure your zucchini is tender without excess moisture:
- Slice zucchini evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Consider salting the sliced zucchini beforehand to draw out moisture. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes, then pat dry with a towel.
- Layer zucchini slices directly in the casserole without crowding them, so they cook evenly without steaming.
Following these tips will give you a beautifully layered casserole that’s still juicy and delicious! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of baking time. In about an hour, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal that the whole family will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when the casserole is ready to bake.
2. Cook the Veggies:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook it until it’s soft and slightly translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds to release its delightful aroma!
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon—this should take about 6-8 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease!
4. Mix in the Marinara:
Pour in the marinara sauce, stir well, and reduce the heat to low. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Start by spreading a thin layer of the beef mixture on the bottom of the dish. Next, layer the zucchini slices on top of the beef.
6. Add the Cheese:
Dollop half of the ricotta cheese over the zucchini. Then sprinkle one-third of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. Repeat this layering process with the remaining beef mixture, zucchini slices, ricotta, and cheese. For the final touch, add a top layer of zucchini slices and cover them with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve:
Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes, so it’s easier to serve. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a lovely touch, if you like!
This casserole is not only hearty but also packed with flavors from the zucchini and ground beef, all topped off with deliciously melted cheese. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute zucchinis with other veggies like eggplant, bell peppers, or even spinach. Just make sure to slice them thinly to ensure they cook through in the oven.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, put it in the oven straight from the fridge, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This casserole is hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You could also serve it over cooked rice or pasta if you’d like to bulk it up even more!
