Irresistible Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe

Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is the kind of dish that makes your taste buds dance like no one is watching. Imagine a warm, bubbling casserole studded with tender zucchini, juicy ground beef, and melted cheese, all mingling together to create a symphony of flavors. zucchini and ground turkey dish The aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses with hints of garlic and herbs, promising a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. flavorful burger recipe.

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This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of family dinners where laughter and stories flowed as freely as the food. It’s the perfect comfort dish for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays when you want to impress without breaking a sweat. savory ground beef stir fry Trust me when I say that once you dig into this Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole, you’ll be counting down the days until you can make it again.

I still remember the first time I served this dish at a family gathering; everyone went back for seconds and thirds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for the best flavor without excess grease; it’s perfect for this casserole. For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Beef Wraps recipe.
• Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis add moisture and texture; choose firm ones without blemishes.
• Onion: A medium onion provides sweetness; chop it finely to blend seamlessly into the casserole.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the flavor profile; feel free to add more if you’re a garlic lover.
• Diced Tomatoes: Opt for canned diced tomatoes with Italian herbs for added flavor; they bring acidity to balance the richness.
• Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and depth; let it soften before mixing for easier incorporation.
• Shredded Cheese: Use mozzarella or cheddar for topping; mix them for an ooey-gooey finish.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs lifts every bite; adjust according to your taste preference.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t forget to taste before serving!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic while your oven preheats to 350°F (175°C). This way, you’re all set for cooking!

Sauté Aromatics and Meat: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add ground beef along with chopped onions. Cook until browned—about 5-7 minutes—and then stir in garlic until fragrant.

Add Vegetables and Seasoning: Toss in sliced zucchini and can of diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes until zucchini softens.

Melt Cream Cheese In: Reduce heat to low, then add softened cream cheese into the mixture. Stir until creamy and well combined—this step is where magic happens!

Layer in Baking Dish: Pour half of the beef-zucchini mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with half of your shredded cheese before repeating layers with remaining mixture and cheese.

Bake Until Golden Brown!: Cover with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove foil and let it bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Enjoy each mouthful filled with tender meat, vibrant veggies, and that melty cheese goodness! If there are leftovers (which will be hard), they store perfectly in the fridge or freeze well for later enjoyment.

Gather your loved ones around this comforting Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole—a dish that truly brings people together! comforting cowboy casserole.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by browning the ground beef with onions and garlic before adding zucchini and spices. This sequence enhances flavor and ensures even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add cheese on top for a gooey finish. This allows personal flair, catering to diverse tastes.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave until heated through, ensuring it retains flavor and texture.

Cooking this dish always reminds me of that time my cousin tried to impress her new boyfriend by making it. She accidentally added too much salt but managed to save it with extra cheese. They’re still together, who knew cheese was the secret ingredient for love?

FAQ

What can I substitute for ground beef in this casserole?

You can use ground turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian option.

Can I prep this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it a day ahead and bake just before serving.

How do I prevent my zucchini from getting soggy?

Sauté the zucchini briefly before adding it to the casserole to retain its crispness. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta recipe.

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📖 Recipe Card

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Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

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• Author: deleciouscorner
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the richness of seasoned ground beef with fresh zucchini and gooey melted cheese. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. With just one pan, you can create a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great option for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with Italian herbs
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. 2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. 3. Stir in sliced zucchini and canned diced tomatoes; season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes until zucchini softens.
4. 4. Reduce heat to low; add softened cream cheese and stir until creamy.
5. 5. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the beef-zucchini mixture, top with half of the shredded cheese. Repeat layers with remaining mixture and cheese.
6. 6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg