Cheesy Zucchini and Ground Beef Casserole

If you’re looking for a hearty dinner that’s both comforting and easy to prepare, this cheesy zucchini and ground beef casserole is the perfect choice.

Tender zucchini, seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and plenty of melted cheese come together in one delicious dish.

It’s an excellent way to use fresh zucchini while creating a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and made with everyday ingredients.

It’s naturally lower in carbohydrates than many traditional casseroles, making it a great option for anyone looking for a lighter comfort meal.

Best of all, leftovers taste just as good the next day.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 medium zucchini, sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the onion until softened, then add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess grease.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Arrange half of the zucchini slices in a greased baking dish.
6. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the zucchini and top with half of the cheddar and mozzarella.
7. Repeat the layers, then sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
8. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
9. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Casserole

To prevent a watery casserole, lightly salt the zucchini slices and let them sit for 15–20 minutes before cooking.

Pat them dry with paper towels before layering. Using freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese also gives a creamier, smoother finish.

Variations

Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor. Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra vegetables, or use pepper jack cheese if you prefer a little heat.

For a keto-friendly version, skip any breadcrumb topping and use full-fat cheese.

What to Serve With It

This casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, roasted broccoli, steamed green beans, or cauliflower rice if you’re keeping the meal low carb.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

You can also freeze the baked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the casserole up to one day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Should I peel the zucchini?

No. The skin becomes tender during baking and adds color and nutrients.

Can I freeze it?

Absolutely. Freeze either before or after baking for a convenient make-ahead meal.

Cheesy Zucchini and Ground Beef Casserole

This Cheesy Zucchini and Ground Beef Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly dinner made with seasoned ground beef, tender zucchini, rich tomato sauce, and layers of melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Baked until golden and bubbly, it's an easy one-dish meal that's perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or using up fresh summer zucchini.

Naturally lower in carbohydrates than traditional pasta casseroles, it's satisfying, flavorful, and sure to become a regular favorite at the dinner table.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 Servings

Calories 430 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 medium zucchini sliced
• 1 small onion diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped parsley for garnish optional

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Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the onion until softened, then add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
• Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess grease.
• Stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
• Arrange half of the zucchini slices in a greased baking dish.
• Spoon half of the beef mixture over the zucchini and top with half of the cheddar and mozzarella.
• Repeat the layers, then sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
• Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Keyword Zucchini and Ground Beef Casserole