Description
This Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole combines tender zucchini, savory ground beef, tomato sauce, and melted cheese for a hearty, low-carb, gluten-free dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Healthy, comforting, and kid-friendly, it’s a delicious way to use fresh zucchini and enjoy a wholesome casserole.
Ingredients
1 pound lean ground beef 3 medium zucchini, sliced into thin rounds 1 small onion, diced 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 cup tomato sauce 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Salt and black pepper, to taste Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice zucchini into thin rounds and set aside. 2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onions until soft. Add garlic, then ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir in tomato sauce and simmer for 2–3 minutes. 3. In a greased 9×13 baking dish, layer half of the zucchini rounds. Spread half of the beef mixture over the zucchini. Sprinkle with half the mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat layers with remaining zucchini, beef, and cheeses. 4. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden. 5. Let stand 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
• Salt and blot zucchini before assembling to reduce moisture. • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. • Add beaten eggs before baking for a breakfast casserole variation. • Add extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or eggplant for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: ground beef zucchini casserole, healthier ground beef recipes, keto zucchini and ground beef recipes, ground turkey recipes for dinner healthy low carb, ground chicken zucchini recipes