Description

This Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a family dinner. Ground beef is sautéed with onions, garlic, and tender zucchini, then combined with creamy tomato sauce and herbs. Topped with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese, it’s baked to bubbly perfection. This casserole is a hearty meal that balances protein and vegetables, with easy preparation and rich, cheesy goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy and Sauces

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
1/2 cup tomato sauce (optional, for added flavor)

Seasonings and Oils

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil (for sautéing)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary to avoid greasiness.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then add the sliced zucchini, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes if using, and salt and pepper to taste. Continue sautéing for 5-7 minutes until the zucchini becomes tender.
Combine the Ingredients: Stir in the heavy cream and tomato sauce (if using), and bring the mixture to a simmer for 2-3 minutes, melding the flavors together. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Layer the Casserole: Transfer the beef and zucchini mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top.
Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly and golden on top.
Serve and Enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This comforting dish is perfect for a hearty meal any day of the week.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner protein option.
For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and omit or replace cheeses.
The tomato sauce is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor to the casserole.
If you prefer less spice, omit the red pepper flakes.
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.