Description

A hearty, savory casserole that combines seasoned ground beef, tender zucchini, and three kinds of cheese into a wholesome and comforting dish. This Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is easy to prepare, low in carbs, and perfect for any weeknight dinner or family gathering. With rich flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a go-to meal you’ll love to make again and again.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (80/20)
4 medium zucchinis, sliced ¼-inch thick
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
2 large eggs
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly salt zucchini slices and let rest in a colander for 15 minutes. Pat dry.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté diced onions until soft, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in tomato paste, drained tomatoes, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
In a bowl, combine ricotta, eggs, half the Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
In a greased 9×13 baking dish, layer half the zucchini, half the beef, half the ricotta mixture, and mozzarella. Repeat.
Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until golden.
Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Let zucchini sweat with salt to prevent a watery casserole.
Swap ricotta for cottage cheese for a lighter version.
Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Freezes well in portions for meal prep.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baked
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 410
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole, Beef Casserole, Low Carb Dinner, Baked Zucchini