Description
This Zesty Zucchini Beef Casserole is a flavorful, hearty dish combining tender zucchini, seasoned ground beef, and melted mozzarella cheese baked to bubbly perfection. With Italian spices and savory tomatoes, it’s an easy, comforting meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Meat
- 1 pound lean ground beef
Pantry & Dairy
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini: Slice the zucchini into thin rounds. Sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse the zucchini slices under cold water to remove the salt and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels to prevent sogginess in the casserole.
- Sauté Onion and Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the lean ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned evenly and fully cooked through.
- Add Seasonings and Tomatoes: Stir in the Italian seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and drained diced tomatoes. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the excess liquid reduce slightly.
- Layer the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a layer of the beef and tomato mixture evenly across the bottom. Add a layer of sliced zucchini on top, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layering process if desired, finishing with a top layer of mozzarella.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden around the edges.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and enhances the flavors. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Salting the zucchini is crucial to prevent excess water from making the casserole soggy.
- Use lean ground beef to keep the dish hearty but not greasy.
- You can substitute mozzarella with a blend of Italian cheeses for more complexity.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
- For added flavor, consider adding chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving.
