If you’re craving a hearty yet fresh dinner that feels like a warm hug, this Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole is about to become your new favorite. This dish marries the rich, savory flavors of perfectly seasoned ground beef with tender slices of zucchini, all layered under a blanket of gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s comfort food that’s balanced with a touch of garden goodness, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual family gatherings. Simple ingredients come together to create a meal that’s satisfying, colorful, and packed with flavor — all baked to perfection in one easy casserole.

Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient here plays a crucial role, from building layers of flavor to adding texture and richness. They’re straightforward staples that come together effortlessly to make something truly special.

1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base providing savory richness and satisfying texture.
2 medium zucchinis, sliced: Fresh and tender, these add a subtle earthiness and moisture to balance the meat.
1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed, a foundational flavor booster.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives aromatic warmth that lifts the entire dish.
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Adds a tangy, comforting sauce that brings all the ingredients together.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating that irresistible gooey layer we all crave.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty kick to balance the mild mozzarella.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and enriching the flavor of onions and garlic.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Provides a classic Italian herb flavor that complements the tomato sauce.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings a sweet, aromatic note to round out the herbs.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate the natural flavors in each layer.

How to Make Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Having the oven ready ensures your casserole goes in as soon as everything is layered and assembled, preserving the freshness of your ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step unlocks layers of flavor that serve as the base for the entire casserole.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to your skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Brown it thoroughly for 6 to 8 minutes until no pink remains. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep your casserole from becoming greasy.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Stir in the tomato sauce, dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully, transforming simple ingredients into a savory sauce that clings perfectly to the beef and zucchini.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, create your first layer by arranging half of the sliced zucchini evenly across the bottom. Pour half of the meat sauce over the zucchini, spreading it gently. Then sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top. Repeat these layers once more, building a luscious, cheesy mountain of goodness.

Step 6: Bake and Finish

Cover your casserole with foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to allow everything to meld and the zucchini to soften. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and beautifully golden brown. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving—this helps it set and makes it easier to slice.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil not only adds a vibrant pop of color but also brightens the flavors with a fresh herbal note. For an extra touch of indulgence, grate some extra Parmesan on top just before serving.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette helps scoop up every last bit of that tasty sauce and melty cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini ramekins or bake the casserole in muffin tins to create easy, hand-held servings. Layer the casserole into a lasagna-style presentation with alternating layers visible can impress dinner guests with its beautiful colors and textures.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to deepen even more, and reheating brings back that freshly baked comfort with ease.

Freezing

This casserole freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or transfer leftovers to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months while maintaining its delicious flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil to prevent drying, for about 20 minutes. This will restore the casserole’s warmth and gooey cheese just like freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this casserole. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust seasoning as needed, since turkey has a milder flavor.

Is it okay to use frozen zucchini for this casserole?

Fresh zucchini is ideal for the best texture, but if using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid extra moisture that could make your casserole soggy.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe as is does not include any gluten-containing ingredients, making it naturally gluten-free and perfect for those with sensitivities.

How spicy is this casserole?

This recipe is mild and comforting, but you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes when simmering the sauce if you prefer a little heat.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to add extra flavor and nutrition that complement the zucchini beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Cooking and sharing this Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole feels like wrapping yourself in cozy, delicious comfort with every bite. It’s a brilliant way to enjoy simple ingredients elevated through layering and baking, with flavors that everyone will love. Give it a try soon — I promise it’ll become a beloved staple in your home just like it is in mine.

Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 13 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious and hearty Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole featuring layers of tender zucchini, savory ground beef in a flavorful tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This easy, baked casserole is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, roughly 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
Simmer Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
Layer Zucchini: Grease a baking dish and arrange half of the sliced zucchini in an even layer on the bottom.
Add Meat Layer: Pour half of the meat sauce mixture evenly over the zucchini layer.
Sprinkle Cheese: Evenly sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the meat layer.
Repeat Layers: Repeat with the remaining zucchini slices, followed by the remaining meat sauce and cheeses.
Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to cook through and meld flavors.
Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to let it set and enhance the flavors.

Notes

For a keto-friendly version, use low-carb tomato sauce without added sugars.
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner option.
If zucchinis are very watery, consider salting and draining them before layering to prevent excess moisture.
This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking from cold.
Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking, Sautéing
Cuisine: American