Ground Beef And Zucchini Casserole

Name: Ground Beef And Zucchini Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Traditional Comforts

I love making this Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole because it brings comfort and nourishment all in one dish. Every bite combines the savory flavors of seasoned beef with tender, sautéed zucchini, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. The best part? It's easy to prep and bake, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. Plus, you can even sneak in some extra veggies! If you're looking for a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy, this casserole is a must-try.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-27T16:25:34.808Z

When I first tried making this Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole, I was nervous about balancing the flavors of the ground beef and the zucchini. However, I found that browning the beef with a touch of garlic really enhances the overall taste. Using fresh zucchini, rather than frozen, made a noticeable difference in texture and freshness in the finished dish.

As I experimented with the recipe, I discovered that layering the zucchini slices evenly ensures they cook perfectly, absorbing all the flavors from the beef and cheese. Trust me, the combination creates a creamy, cheesy delight that you'll crave time and again.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, making it perfect for family dinners.
The combination of beef and zucchini brings a unique flavor profile.
It's a one-pan wonder, which means easy cleanup!

      

Ingredient Insights

The heart of this Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole is the combination of ground beef and fresh zucchini. Ground beef provides a robust flavor and texture that's balanced by the lightness of zucchini. Choose a leaner cut of ground beef to keep the dish healthier and prevent excess grease, which can make the casserole too heavy.

Zucchini not only adds moisture but also helps to keep the casserole light and nutritious. When slicing the zucchini, aim for uniform thickness—about 1/4 inch—to ensure even cooking. If you're short on zucchini, you can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

Baking Tips

When layering the casserole, ensure that the layers are well distributed; this will create a balanced flavor profile. If you find yourself short on ricotta cheese, mix some cottage cheese with a bit of cream to mimic the creamy texture. This alternative is an excellent way to cut costs without sacrificing taste.

Covering the casserole with foil during the initial baking keeps moisture in, allowing all the flavors to meld together. The final uncovered baking step is crucial; it lets the cheese develop a beautiful golden crust that enhances both the appearance and flavor of the dish.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Make sure to slice the zucchinis evenly for consistent cooking.

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat and stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a casserole dish, spread half of the beef mixture, then layer with half of the zucchini slices. Spoon half of the ricotta cheese over the zucchinis and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with mozzarella on top.

Bake

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to let it set.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can mix in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms with the beef or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Storing and Reheating

This casserole is perfect for leftovers! Allow it to cool completely after baking, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.

If you plan to freeze the casserole, it’s best to do so before baking. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, replace the foil, and bake from frozen, allowing additional time for the casserole to cook through.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve this casserole alongside a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables. The freshness of a salad will contrast beautifully with the rich, cheesy casserole. You can even sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top of the casserole right before serving to add a burst of color and flavor.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a layer of cooked pasta or quinoa in between the beef and zucchini layers for a heartier dish. This can also make the casserole stretch further if you're serving a larger group, making it a great option for family gatherings or potlucks.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian option.

→ Is it possible to make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or some garlic bread on the side.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Store the leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to three months. Just reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.