This Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a tasty mix of beef and zucchini, all covered in melted cheese. It’s like a warm hug in a dish!
You can whip it up in no time, and it’s perfect for busy nights. Just layer, bake, and enjoy! Plus, the cheese? It’s always a winner in my book! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey or chicken can work well too! You can also use plant-based ground meat if you’re aiming for a meat-free dish.
Zucchini: The star of this dish! Choose medium-sized zucchinis for the best texture. If you don’t have zucchini on hand, yellow squash is a good substitute, or even eggplant if you’re feeling adventurous.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is key for its meltiness, but feel free to mix cheddar for a different flavor. Ricotta adds creaminess, but you could swap it with cottage cheese. For those avoiding dairy, look for vegan cheese options for similar textures.
Marinara Sauce: Homemade is great, but store-bought saves time! For a twist, try pesto or Alfredo sauce for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful of salt levels in different sauces.
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole is Layers of Yum?
Layering your casserole right is crucial for even cooking and great flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom to prevent sticking and add moisture.
- Layer zucchini first, not just on top! It’s great to distribute it evenly for more texture.
- Dollop ricotta directly onto the zucchini so it warms and softens as it bakes, and then sprinkle cheese on top for a beautiful finish.
Take your time while assembling; it adds to the tastiness! Remember to bake until bubbly and golden for that perfect cheesy crust!
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara or tomato pasta sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Optional: red pepper flakes, for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, for a total of about 45-50 minutes. You’ll spend some time cooking the beef and veggies, then layering it all together before letting your oven work its magic!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first, let’s preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, grab your zucchinis, slice them into round discs about 1/4-inch thick, and set them aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent, which should take around 3-4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it smells amazing! Then, add your ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink—this should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off carefully!
3. Mix in the Sauce:
Now, stir in your marinara sauce along with the Italian seasoning. Sprinkle in some salt and pepper, mix everything together, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can blend beautifully.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Grab a greased baking dish and spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Then, layer half of the sliced zucchini over the sauce. Next, dollop half of the ricotta cheese on top of the zucchini, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese. Now, spoon half of the remaining meat sauce over everything until it’s nice and even.
Repeat this process with the remaining zucchini, ricotta, mozzarella, and meat sauce, layering them in the same order. Finally, finish it off by sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top!
5. Bake and Garnish:
Place your assembled casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and has that gorgeous golden color. Once it’s done, take it out and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and, if you like a little spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, cheesy delight!
This casserole combines savory ground beef with fresh zucchini and gooey cheese, making it a comfort food classic that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini, but make sure it’s completely thawed and drained to remove excess moisture. Frozen zucchini might be softer than fresh, but it will still work well in this casserole!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using plant-based ground meat or even lentils for added protein and fiber.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage! Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time! Assemble it completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge!
