Description
This Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish combining savory ground beef, tender zucchini, and a blend of melted mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Enhanced with aromatic herbs and a creamy tomato-infused sauce, it’s an ideal family-friendly meal that comes together quickly with a simple stovetop sauté and oven bake.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy and Sauces
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (optional, for added flavor)
Seasonings and Oils
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a small amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary to reduce greasiness.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic with the browned beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens. Add sliced zucchini, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes if desired, and season with salt and pepper. Continue sautéing for 5-7 minutes until the zucchini becomes tender.
- Combine the Ingredients: Pour in the heavy cream and tomato sauce (if using) to the skillet. Stir and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Layer the Casserole: Transfer the beef and zucchini mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheeses are melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy this warm, cheesy, and satisfying meal!
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for beef and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
- You can omit the tomato sauce for a creamier casserole with no tomato flavor.
- Red pepper flakes can be adjusted or omitted depending on your spice preference.
- Make sure to drain excess fat from the ground beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread.
