Description
A delicious and comforting Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil, add the onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add ground beef, season, and cook until browned, draining excess fat if necessary.
- Add the Sauce: Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 3-5 minutes.
- Layer the Ingredients: In a baking dish, layer sliced zucchinis, then half of the beef mixture.
- Add Cheese: Dollop ricotta (if using), then sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Finish Layering: Add another layer of zucchinis and the remaining beef mixture, topping with remaining cheeses.
- Bake It: Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Allow to cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil and red pepper flakes, if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated.
- Feel free to add other vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg