Ground Beef And Zucchini Casserole

Name: Ground Beef And Zucchini Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Cooking

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole when I want a hearty yet healthy meal. It's perfect for busy weeknights, and the flavors meld together beautifully as it bakes. The combination of the savory beef and tender zucchini creates a dish that my whole family enjoys. I love how easy it is to throw everything into one pan, making cleanup a breeze! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-02-27T13:29:37.557Z

Creating this Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole has been a delightful culinary adventure for me. I remember the first time I made it; I was amazed at how simply sautéed vegetables could elevate a traditional casserole to something extraordinary. The secret lies in seasoning the beef well and letting the zucchini release its moisture, which makes the casserole incredibly flavorful. I like to sprinkle in Italian herbs to deepen the taste even further.

One of the reasons I enjoy this recipe so much is its versatility. If you have leftover vegetables, you can easily toss them in, which ensures that nothing goes to waste. I’ve also experimented with different cheeses, and a good layer of melted mozzarella on top never fails to impress. Every time I make it, I’m reminded why this dish holds a special place in my recipe collection!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory layers of beef with the subtle sweetness of zucchini
A cheesy topping that adds a delightful crunch
Convenient one-pan preparation for easy cleanup

The Role of Zucchini

Zucchini plays a crucial role in this casserole, not just as a filler but as a flavor enhancer. When cooked, zucchini becomes tender and absorbs the savory juices from the ground beef and tomatoes, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Its mild taste allows it to complement the robust seasonings without overpowering them. Additionally, the moisture from the zucchini helps keep the dish juicy, preventing it from becoming too dry during baking.

In this recipe, you can use young, firm zucchinis for the best texture. Look for ones that are medium-sized, about 6 to 7 inches long, as they tend to have fewer seeds and a sweeter flavor. If you have larger zucchinis on hand, just scoop out the seeds to maintain the dish's integrity. You can also substitute zucchini with yellow squash for a slight variation without compromising the overall flavor.

Layering Techniques

When assembling your casserole, consider the layering technique to ensure even cooking and provide a delightful bite each time. Start with the beef and vegetable mixture as the base, spreading it evenly across the baking dish. This helps create a balanced distribution of flavors. After adding the cheese, try to cover the entire surface to ensure that every bite is cheesy and satisfying. For added flavor, sprinkle a pinch of extra Italian seasoning on top of the cheese before baking.

If you prefer a crispier topping, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the cooking time. Just watch carefully to prevent burning. The combination of bubbling cheese and browned edges provides a visual treat that makes the dish even more appetizing.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Ensure all ingredients are prepared before beginning the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it's translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Veggies

Stir in the sliced zucchinis and diced tomatoes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes so the zucchini softens.

Layer and Bake

Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.

Pro Tips

For a spicier version, add some red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. Feel free to replace zucchini with other vegetables such as bell peppers or eggplant depending on your preference.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the biggest advantages of this Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole is how well it holds up for future meals. You can prepare the entire casserole in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply remove it from the fridge and allow it to sit for about 20 minutes at room temperature before baking. This helps with even cooking.

If you've made too much or want to save leftovers, properly cooled portions can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. If you want to freeze it, I recommend doing so before baking. Wrap it tightly and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to round out your meal. A light vinaigrette over mixed greens enhances the flavors without overwhelming the dish. If you prefer an Italian twist, serve it with garlic bread or a loaf of crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious juices.

For a more indulgent experience, consider adding some cooked pasta to the casserole before baking. This will turn it into a heartier meal, perfect for family gatherings. Toss the pasta in with the beef and vegetables during the layering process for an added dimension of texture that complements the dish beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef.

→ Can this casserole be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and just bake it when you're ready to eat.

→ What can I serve with the casserole?

It's delicious on its own, but a side salad or some garlic bread would pair well.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.