Description
This ground beef zucchini casserole is a comforting low-carb dinner option featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, tender zucchini slices, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s easy to prepare, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 3 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 cup (240ml) marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Cheeses
- 1½ cups (150g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the casserole.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Sauté Onion: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Sauce: Stir in the minced garlic, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to combine all flavors.
- Layer Zucchini: In a greased baking dish, arrange half of the zucchini slices evenly as the first layer.
- Add Beef Mixture: Spread the cooked beef and sauce mixture evenly over the zucchini layer.
- Second Layer of Zucchini: Place the remaining zucchini slices over the beef layer evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Notes
- Salt zucchini slices and pat dry before assembling to reduce excess moisture and prevent sogginess.
- For added nutrition and flavor, consider adding mushrooms or spinach to the beef mixture.
- This casserole keeps well and is great for meal prep; store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American Cuisine
