Zucchini and Beef Casserole Recipe
Looking for a hearty, wholesome dish that’s perfect for dinner? This Zucchini and Beef Casserole combines tender zucchini, savory ground beef, and a cheesy topping that’s guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (drain excess liquid)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the zucchinis and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step ensures your casserole doesn’t turn out watery!
2. Cook the Beef Mixture
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add ground beef. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the beef and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Layer the Casserole
- In a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spread a layer of zucchini slices.
- Add a layer of the beef mixture, then sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of zucchini on top.
4. Add the Topping
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, mozzarella cheese, and olive oil or butter. Mix well and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
5. Bake the Casserole
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
- Pair with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Zucchini and Beef Casserole
- Avoid excess moisture: Pat the zucchini slices dry, and if needed, sprinkle with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes before wiping them down.
- Enhance the flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as instructed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Zucchini and Beef Casserole is not only delicious but also:
- Healthy: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a balanced meal.
- Easy to customize: Swap beef for turkey, or add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Great for leftovers: Reheats beautifully for lunch or dinner the next day.
