Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

Published: July 2, 2025

by Aileen Reed

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Filling – This casserole combines protein-rich ground beef and nutritious zucchini, making it a complete meal.
Quick to Prepare – With a total preparation time of just 40 minutes, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
Low Carb Delight – For those watching their carb intake, this recipe is a fantastic option without sacrificing flavor.
Family Favorite – The cheesy layers and savory flavors make this dish appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Versatile Ingredients – You can easily adapt the recipe by adding other vegetables or using different types of cheese based on your family’s preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the ground beef zucchini casserole efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Baking dish (8×8)
Knife
Cutting board
Sieve or colander

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet – Perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing vegetables evenly.
Baking dish (8×8) – Ideal size for layering ingredients, ensuring even cooking throughout.
Knife – A sharp knife makes slicing zucchini quick and easy, enhancing your prep time.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

2 medium zucchini, sliced (about 2 pounds)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion (diced)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 pound lean ground beef
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 28 ounce can diced tomatoes (drained)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Slice the zucchini into 1/2 rounds.
Put the rounds in a sieve or colander over the sink or bowl and sprinkle with salt, tossing to coat.
Allow the salted zucchini to sit for 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
Rinse well under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat dry with paper towel.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Mixture

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add diced onions and cook until they begin to soften, about 2 minutes.
Add minced garlic and lean ground beef, breaking up the meat with a spoon.
Cook while stirring often until the meat is browned with no trace of pink, about 5 minutes.
Stir in drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In an 8×8 baking dish, spread half of the ground beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
Layer half of the zucchini slices over the meat mixture followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Repeat these layers with the remaining meat mixture, zucchini slices, and cheese.

Step 4: Bake

Place in preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until cheese is melted and beginning to brown.
Allow casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole!

How to Serve Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

Serving ground beef zucchini casserole is simple and versatile. You can enjoy this dish on its own or pair it with various sides to enhance your meal. Here are some great serving suggestions.

With a Fresh Salad

Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons provide a delicious contrast to the warm casserole.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

Chopped Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley over the casserole adds a pop of color and freshness.
Basil Leaves: Fresh basil can enhance the Italian flavors in the dish, making each bite more aromatic.

As Leftovers

Reheated for Lunch: The casserole makes an excellent lunch option when reheated. Just microwave until warmed through.
In a Wrap: Use leftovers in a tortilla wrap with some fresh veggies for a tasty twist.

How to Perfect Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

Perfecting your ground beef zucchini casserole involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh zucchini and quality ground beef will enhance the overall flavor of your casserole.
Layer Ingredients Well: Proper layering of meat, zucchini, and cheese ensures even cooking and flavor distribution.
Don’t Skip Salting Zucchini: Salting helps draw out excess moisture from the zucchini, preventing a watery casserole.
Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for added depth of flavor.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your preference for a personalized touch.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

Pairing side dishes with ground beef zucchini casserole can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this hearty dish perfectly.

Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
Steamed Broccoli: A healthy green side that adds nutrition without overpowering the main dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional flavors and textures to your meal.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds brightness and complements the rich flavors of the casserole.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf makes a great base alongside the savory casserole.
Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative that pairs well without being too heavy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole, avoiding common pitfalls can make a big difference in the final result.

Over-salting the zucchini: Salting helps draw moisture from the zucchini, but too much salt can make your dish overly salty. Use just enough to enhance flavor and rinse thoroughly after resting.
Skipping the resting time: Allowing the casserole to rest before serving helps it set and makes it easier to slice. Don’t skip this step, as it enhances the overall texture.
Not draining the tomatoes: Using undrained canned tomatoes can lead to a watery casserole. Always drain them well to keep your dish from becoming soggy.
Using low-quality cheese: The type of cheese you use impacts flavor and texture. Opt for high-quality mozzarella for a gooey, delicious topping instead of pre-shredded varieties that may contain fillers.
Not layering properly: Layering is key for even cooking and flavor distribution. Make sure to alternate meat, zucchini, and cheese layers evenly for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

Portion into freezer-safe containers.
Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other vegetables in my Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole?

You can definitely add other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms. Just ensure they are sliced thinly so they cook evenly with the zucchini.

How can I make this casserole healthier?

To make your Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole healthier, consider using leaner ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add more veggies or substitute part of the cheese with a lower-fat option.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble your Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What should I serve with my Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. These options complement its flavors without overwhelming the meal.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Feel free to customize it by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy a cozy family meal!