Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s both hearty and full of fresh garden flavor, this Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole will absolutely hit the spot. It’s an irresistible combination: rich, savory ground beef layered with tender zucchini, brightened up with tomatoes and melted cheese, all bubbling together in a single, fuss-free bake. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck with friends, this casserole feels like a warm, home-cooked hug you’ll return to time and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about this recipe is how you only need a handful of accessible ingredients, each one pulling double duty to give our Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole its irresistible taste and texture. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few tips to make each ingredient shine:

• Ground beef: Opt for 80/20 or 85/15 for the juiciest, most flavorful casserole base.
• Zucchini: Go for firm, small to medium zucchini so they slice evenly and stay tender, not mushy.
• Onion: Sweet or yellow onions add a subtle background sweetness that balances the richness.
• Garlic: A couple of cloves elevate the whole dish with savory aroma (fresh is best!).
• Canned diced tomatoes: These add moisture and bright acidity, bringing all the flavors together.
• Tomato sauce: Provides a luscious layer that soaks into the zucchini and beef for a true casserole feel.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme ties everything together with herby warmth.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melted on top for that signature gooey-cheesy finish.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a punch of color and a sharp, savory note.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer so all the flavors pop.
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing and adding a subtle depth to the veggies.

How to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Beef

Start by heating a splash of olive oil in a large skillet set over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent—about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, toss in the garlic and let it cook for another minute, just until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it browns; season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Once the beef is cooked through and no pink remains, drain off any excess fat so your casserole isn’t greasy.

Step 2: Prep the Zucchini

Slice your zucchini into thin, even rounds—about 1/4-inch thick. If your zucchini is extra watery, lay the slices on paper towels and sprinkle them lightly with salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes, then blot dry. This step helps the casserole set up and prevents a watery bottom layer.

Step 3: Build the Casserole Layers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, begin by spreading a little tomato sauce to coat the bottom. Layer half of the zucchini rounds over the sauce, then spoon half of your ground beef mixture on top. Scatter half of the diced tomatoes and half of each cheese (mozzarella and cheddar) over the beef. Repeat the layers: arrange the rest of the zucchini, the remaining beef, the rest of the tomatoes, and then top it all off with the remaining cheese.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden

Cover your casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and golden and the casserole is bubbling hot all the way through. If you love a crispier cheese top, you can broil it for a minute or two—just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn!

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Allow your Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing in. This lets everything set up a bit, making it easier to serve tidy portions (and the flavors mingle even more!).

How to Serve Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

Garnishes

To give your Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole that extra touch, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley, basil, or a little extra shredded cheese on top just before serving. A light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a gentle kick if you enjoy a hint of heat.

Side Dishes

This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or a basket of warm crusty bread to soak up all the savory sauce. Roasted or steamed green beans are a lovely, simple addition on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

You don’t have to stick with a classic casserole pan—try baking and serving your Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole in individual ramekins for a dinner party, or spoon it into bell pepper halves and bake for a colorful, extra-veggie twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store individual portions of the Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole in airtight containers in the fridge. It will keep beautifully for 3-4 days, and the flavors deepen even more as it sits.

Freezing

This casserole freezes very well! Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly (either the entire dish or individual servings). Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, simply pop your portion into the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying). Alternatively, microwave individual servings in a covered, microwave-safe dish until heated—just be careful not to overcook, or the zucchini may get soft.

FAQs

Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken both work well in this recipe and can lighten things up. Just be sure to season more generously, as leaner meats can be a bit milder in flavor than beef.

What can I use if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

If you’re out of Italian seasoning, mix equal parts of dried basil, oregano, and thyme. Even a pinch of rosemary or parsley works, depending on your favorite flavors.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?

Zucchini is naturally high in water. For the best result, salt and blot your zucchini slices before layering, and don’t skip draining the tomatoes a little before adding. These simple steps make all the difference in achieving a set, not soggy, casserole.

Can I make Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the whole casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Let it come up to room temperature before baking, or add a few extra minutes to the bake time if going straight from the fridge to the oven.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

It is naturally gluten-free as written! Just double-check your canned tomato products and seasonings to ensure no hidden gluten, especially if cooking for someone with celiac sensitivity.

Final Thoughts

I truly can’t recommend this Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole enough; it’s a dish that feels special yet couldn’t be easier to put together. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this casserole is as cozy and satisfying as it gets. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite at your table!

Print