Ekani Ella This Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition — a flavorful combination of tender zucchini, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese baked together into a creamy, satisfying meal. It’s a family-friendly dish that makes dinner both delicious and wholesome. Ideal for weeknights or meal prep, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a hearty, one-pan wonder that’s ready in under an hour.
What Is a Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole?
A ground beef zucchini casserole is a baked dish featuring layers of sautéed ground beef, fresh zucchini, cheese, and a creamy or tomato-based sauce. The flavors blend together beautifully during baking, giving you a warm, comforting dish that’s rich, cheesy, and full of hearty texture. It’s a great way to use up zucchini while keeping the meal balanced with protein and vegetables.
Other Popular Casserole Recipes
Reasons to Try Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
- Easy and quick – Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
- Family-approved – Comforting, cheesy, and full of flavor.
- Healthy and balanced – Packed with protein and vegetables.
- Budget-friendly – Uses common pantry staples and seasonal produce.
- Meal-prep friendly – Stores and reheats beautifully for busy days.
Ingredients Needed to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
- 1 pound ground beef (lean or extra-lean preferred)
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (optional topping)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions to Prepare Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Cook the beef mixture
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease, then stir in diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the zucchini
Place sliced zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with a little salt, and let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with paper towels to prevent a watery casserole.
Step 4: Combine the layers
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, zucchini, and sour cream. Stir until evenly coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Step 5: Add the topping
Mix breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers) with melted butter and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole, followed by shredded cheddar or mozzarella.
Step 6: Bake until golden
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Step 7: Rest and serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
What Goes Well With Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
- Garlic bread – Perfect for scooping up the cheesy filling.
- Mashed potatoes – Adds extra comfort to your meal.
- Green salad – Light and crisp for a balanced plate.
- Roasted vegetables – Complement the rich, cheesy flavors.
- Rice or pasta – Ideal for making it even more filling.
Key Tips for Making Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
- Drain excess moisture – Always salt and pat dry the zucchini.
- Use lean beef – Prevents greasiness and keeps flavors balanced.
- Add more flavor – Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce enhances the beef.
- Don’t overbake – Keeps the zucchini tender, not mushy.
- Let it rest – Allows the casserole to firm up before serving.
- Add cheese wisely – Mix some into the filling and save some for the top.
Creative Variations of Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
- Low-carb version – Skip breadcrumbs and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
- Mexican-inspired – Add taco seasoning, black beans, and pepper jack cheese.
- Creamy mushroom twist – Stir in a can of cream of mushroom soup.
- Spicy version – Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Vegetable-packed – Mix in spinach, carrots, or bell peppers.
Storage Guidelines for Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
- Refrigerate leftovers – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for later – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Cool completely before freezing – Helps preserve the texture.
- Label and date – For easy meal planning.
Reheating Tips for Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
- Oven method – Reheat covered at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes.
- Microwave method – Heat individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
- From frozen – Thaw overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot throughout.
Nutritional Value (per serving):
- Calories: ~340
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 530 mg
Final Words
This Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole brings together simple ingredients in the most comforting way. With its savory beef, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a dish that satisfies everyone at the table.
