Description

This Irresistibly Hearty Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Delight combines tender zucchini slices with savory lean ground beef, Italian herbs, and melted mozzarella cheese to create a comforting and wholesome meal. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this casserole is simple to prepare and packed with flavor, making it both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Aromatics

2 cups Zucchini (sliced into ½” rounds)
1 medium Onion (diced)
2 cloves Garlic (minced)

Proteins

1 pound Lean Ground Beef

Seasonings

1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
½ teaspoon Black Pepper

Other Ingredients

2 tablespoons Olive Oil
1 can Diced Tomatoes (drained)
2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

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Instructions

Prepare the zucchini: Slice the zucchini into ½-inch rounds and set aside. This provides a fresh vegetable base for the casserole and ensures even cooking.
Sauté aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds the foundational flavor for the dish.
Cook ground beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet with the aromatics. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish light.
Season the mixture: Stir in 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. These seasonings infuse the meat with an herby, savory note.
Add tomatoes: Mix in the drained can of diced tomatoes, allowing the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes so the flavors meld together and excess liquid reduces slightly.
Assemble the casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, layer half of the sliced zucchini on the bottom. Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the zucchini. Then layer the remaining zucchini slices on top, followed by an even layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. This step melds all the flavors together and creates a deliciously cheesy crust.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing into 6 servings. This makes it easier to serve and enjoy.

Notes

For a lower-carb version, ensure the diced tomatoes are drained thoroughly to minimize excess moisture.
You can substitute mozzarella with a blend of Italian cheeses for extra flavor.
To add more vegetables, consider layering sliced mushrooms or bell peppers with the zucchini.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.