40-Minute Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole That’s Irresistible Recipe

Introduction

This 40-minute ground beef zucchini casserole is a simple and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. With hearty ground beef, fresh zucchini, and melted cheese, it offers a comforting blend of flavors that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Step 3: Add ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft.
4. Step 4: Stir in sliced zucchini, diced tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the zucchini begins to soften.
5. Step 5: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
6. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try adding Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
• You can substitute the shredded cheese with mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend for different tastes.
• To make it low-carb, omit the tomatoes or replace with a smaller amount of a low-sugar tomato sauce.
• Adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms can add more texture and nutrition.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well and makes the dish lighter. Just cook it similarly until browned before adding the vegetables.

Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. It reheats well and can be portioned into containers for easy meals throughout the week.

40-Minute Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole That’s Irresistible Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 86 reviews

• Author: Naomi
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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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.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the cooked ground beef and vegetable mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture in the baking dish.
6. 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.
7. 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