It’s a chilly evening, and the aroma of a bubbling Ground Beef & Zucchini Casserole wafts through the house, wrapping you in warmth like your favorite blanket. Imagine tender zucchini mingling with savory ground beef, all enveloped in a cheesy goodness that promises to make your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching. Crockpot chicken enchilada casserole Yes, this dish is not just dinner; it’s an experience that beckons you to gather around the table and create memories.
Now, let’s be honest: we all have those days when cooking feels more like a chore than a joy. This Ground Beef & Zucchini Casserole swoops in like a culinary superhero, saving you from dinnertime despair with its simple prep and delightful flavors. It’s ideal for cozy family nights or when unexpected guests drop by—trust me, they will thank you for serving this comfort food classic. For more inspiration, check out this Cozy Rotisserie Chicken Soup recipe.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This hearty ground beef and zucchini casserole is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The rich flavors combine beautifully, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and visually appealing. You can easily swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge, ensuring delicious flexibility. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder that simplifies cleanup! [/info_box]
Sharing this dish with friends led to many compliments and requests for seconds; it’s always a hit at gatherings!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease and better flavor absorption during cooking.
Zucchini: Look for firm zucchini without blemishes; they should be fresh and vibrant.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; chop finely for even distribution throughout the casserole.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic depth; don’t skimp—use at least three! Cheddar garlic herb potato soup.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar melts beautifully on top; choose quality cheese for the best flavor. Sausage cream cheese crescent rolls.
Canned Tomato Sauce: Opt for low-sodium varieties to control salt levels while still adding moisture.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs enhances the overall flavor; use store-bought or mix your own!
Pasta (Optional): If desired, add cooked pasta to make it heartier—shells or penne work well.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop the onion and garlic finely so they integrate well into the casserole.
Sauté Ground Beef & Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Add onions and garlic until they become fragrant and translucent.
Add Zucchini & Tomato Sauce: Stir in diced zucchini and pour in the tomato sauce along with Italian seasoning. Cook until everything melds together beautifully—about 5 minutes.
Assemble the Casserole: In a baking dish, layer half of the beef mixture followed by half of the shredded cheese. Repeat layers until everything is used up.
Bake Until Golden & Bubbly: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Serve & Enjoy!: Remove from the oven carefully; let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy those cheesy bites of goodness as everyone dives in!
This Ground Beef & Zucchini Casserole isn’t just another meal; it’s an invitation to savor simplicity with family or friends. Each bite captures love and laughter shared around the dinner table—now that’s something worth celebrating!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Ground Beef & Zucchini Casserole is an easy, hearty meal that can impress anyone at the dinner table. The blend of flavors creates a comforting dish that warms your soul. Plus, this recipe is perfect for using up those extra zucchinis sitting in your fridge! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef to develop flavor. While it cooks, chop the zucchini and prepare your seasonings. This ensures everything comes together smoothly without overcooking any ingredients.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the zucchini for other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also sprinkle different cheeses on top for a unique twist that caters to your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain its deliciousness and texture.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, and drain any excess fat after browning. Make sure to season your vegetables well; they bring life to the casserole. Always let the casserole sit before serving; it allows flavors to meld beautifully. [/info_box]
Creating this Ground Beef & Zucchini Casserole brought back memories of family dinners filled with laughter and even a few kitchen disasters. Ground turkey skillet recipe But hey, some of my best recipes were born from mishaps!
FAQ
Can I use frozen zucchini for this casserole?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or omit them entirely.
What can I serve with this casserole?
Serve it alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Ground Beef & Zucchini Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Ground Beef & Zucchini Casserole is a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. This delightful one-dish meal combines tender zucchini and savory ground beef, all smothered in gooey cheddar cheese. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s ideal for family dinners or unexpected guests. With its hearty ingredients and simple cooking process, this casserole is sure to become a favorite around your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup canned low-sodium tomato sauce
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup cooked pasta (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Stir in diced zucchini, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning; cook for about 5 minutes.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the meat mixture and half of the cheese; repeat layers.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
