Description
Hearty, wholesome, and packed with flavor, this Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a perfect all-in-one dish for busy weeknights or comforting weekend meals. With tender zucchini, savory ground beef, and melty cheese layered together in a rich tomato base, this casserole brings together everything you love in a home-cooked meal—easy prep, nourishing ingredients, and mouthwatering taste.
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Ingredients
For the Casserole Filling:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 small onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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3 medium zucchinis, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp paprika
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
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½ cup tomato sauce
For the Cheese Mixture:
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1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
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1 large egg
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½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Topping:
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft.
Stir in garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Drain excess grease if necessary.
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, oregano, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Layer
In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, mozzarella, and Parmesan until well combined.
This layer adds creaminess and helps bind the casserole together.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Layer half of the zucchini slices on the bottom of the casserole dish.
Spoon half of the beef mixture over the zucchini.
Spread half of the cheese mixture evenly on top.
Repeat with remaining zucchini, then the rest of the beef mixture, and finally the remaining cheese layer.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the top with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 2 tbsp Parmesan.
This creates a bubbly, golden crust once baked.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve hot with your favorite side like a green salad, garlic bread, or roasted potatoes.
Notes
Slice Zucchini Evenly – Uniform slices ensure even cooking.
Salt Zucchini (Optional) – For less moisture, lightly salt zucchini slices and let sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry.
Drain Meat Well – Reduces excess grease in the final casserole.
Use Full-Fat Cheese – Delivers the best flavor and creamy texture.
Let it Rest – Allow the casserole to cool slightly before cutting so it holds together better.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Cuisine: American