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Meaty Zucchini Casserole With Ground Beef

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This meaty zucchini casserole combines tender zucchini slices, savory ground beef, and rich tomato sauce layered with cheese and baked until golden and bubbly — a hearty, comforting family meal.

Ingredients

  • 3 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds or half-moons
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes (optional)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup ricotta or cottage cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, until browned and no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce and diced tomatoes (if using). Simmer for 5–10 minutes to develop flavor. Remove from heat.
  5. Lightly salt zucchini slices and let sit for 5 minutes, then pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  6. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce.
  7. Layer half the zucchini slices over the sauce. If using ricotta or cottage cheese, spread it evenly on top.
  8. Add the remaining meat sauce, then the rest of the zucchini slices.
  9. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
  10. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until zucchini is tender and cheese is melted and golden.
  11. Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Salting and drying zucchini prevents excess water in the casserole.
  • Use lean ground beef to avoid greasiness.
  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Add mushrooms or spinach for more vegetables.
  • Make ahead and refrigerate before baking for an easy prep-ahead meal.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/meaty-zucchini-casserole-with-ground-beef/