Description
This nutrient-dense ground beef zucchini casserole is a comforting one-dish wonder perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring layers of savory, lean ground beef, crisp fresh zucchini, and bubbly melted mozzarella in a rich, herb-infused tomato sauce, it offers a balanced meal that simplifies cleanup. The zucchini perfectly absorbs the seasoned sauce, creating a tender texture that pairs beautifully with the golden, cheesy crust. It is a hearty, family-friendly dinner solution that brings together classic comforting flavors without requiring any additional side dishes.
Ingredients
1 lb extra lean ground beef
3 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
15 oz tomato sauce
2 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing or sautéing)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.
Sauté the diced onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat until translucent.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until fully browned.
Drain excess fat from the skillet.
Stir in the minced garlic, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning over the meat.
Simmer the sauce mixture for five minutes while stirring occasionally.
Layer half of the sliced zucchini rounds across the bottom of the prepared pan.
Spread the seasoned meat mixture evenly over the zucchini slices.
Top with the remaining zucchini slices.
Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
Bake for 35 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Notes
Ensure you drain the excess fat after browning the beef to keep the casserole light. You can sprinkle extra herbs like fresh parsley or basil on top after baking for an aromatic finish. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Comfort
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 75mg