Description
This Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a quick and comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Featuring tender ground beef, fresh zucchini, savory tomatoes, and a melty cheese topping, this casserole combines wholesome ingredients in a simple one-dish meal ready in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella preferred)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Ground Beef Mixture: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Vegetables and Seasoning: Stir in the sliced zucchini and canned diced tomatoes along with their juices. Season with salt and black pepper. Continue cooking the mixture for an additional 5 minutes to soften the zucchini and meld the flavors.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the cooked ground beef and vegetable mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this hearty and tasty meal!
Notes
- Use a mix of cheeses for extra flavor, such as mozzarella and cheddar.
- For a low-carb option, substitute or reduce tomatoes.
- To add more vegetables, include bell peppers or mushrooms during cooking.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the microwave or oven.
- Ensure zucchini slices are not too thick to allow even cooking within 5 minutes on stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole, Easy Casserole Recipe, Weeknight Dinner, Quick Dinner, Healthy Casserole
