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Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe

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4.4 from 9 reviews

A hearty and delicious Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole that combines tender zucchini slices, savory ground beef seasoned with Italian herbs, and melted mozzarella cheese, baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a comforting family meal and is low-carb and gluten-free.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 2 medium zucchini, sliced (about 2 pounds)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

Meat

  • 1 pound lean ground beef

Pantry & Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus additional for salting zucchini)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained

Dairy

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the zucchini: Slice the zucchini into 1/2-inch rounds. Place the slices in a sieve or colander and sprinkle with salt, tossing to coat evenly. This step helps draw out excess moisture for better texture.
  2. Drain zucchini moisture: Let the salted zucchini sit for 15 minutes to release excess water. After this, rinse the zucchini thoroughly under cold water to remove the extra salt, then pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Sauté onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and cook for about 2 minutes until they start to soften.
  4. Cook ground beef and garlic: Add minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is fully browned with no pink remaining, approximately 5 minutes.
  5. Season the beef mixture: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Remove the skillet from heat to prevent overcooking.
  6. Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
  7. Assemble casserole – first layer: Spread half of the ground beef mixture evenly in an 8×8-inch baking dish. Arrange half of the zucchini slices over the meat, and sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
  8. Assemble casserole – second layer: Repeat by layering the remaining ground beef mixture, zucchini slices, and mozzarella cheese to complete the casserole.
  9. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and starting to turn golden brown.
  10. Rest before serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. This helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.

Notes

  • Salting and rinsing the zucchini helps prevent a watery casserole by removing excess moisture.
  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner meat option.
  • Use low-moisture mozzarella cheese for best melting results.
  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning.
  • Serve with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Find it online: https://recipeteach.com/ground-beef-zucchini-casserole-recipe/