Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole

Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole

This easy ground beef and zucchini casserole is rich, cheesy, and protein-packed. It's a simple and delicious dish that is lightened up with cottage cheese and filled with veggies. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner!

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs zucchini

    sliced into rounds

  • 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion

    chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic

    minced

  • 1 lb ground beef

    I like 90% lean

  • Salt & pepper
    to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ cup cottage cheese

    or ricotta cheese

  • 14 oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • ½ cup broth or water
  • ½ cup grated or shredded parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil

    for garnish

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. 2

    In a large skillet or pot, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium heat.

  3. 3

    Shake the colander with the zucchini rounds to remove excess water, then pat them dry with a paper towel.

  4. 4

    Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.

  5. 5

    Garnish the casserole with fresh basil before serving.

Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole

Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole

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About this Recipe

Craving a comforting, cheesy dinner packed with savory flavors and fresh vegetables, but short on time? This easy Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole is your answer for a satisfying weeknight meal.

What makes this casserole truly special is its perfect balance: rich ground beef pairs beautifully with tender zucchini, while a blend of cottage cheese and mozzarella creates a creamy, cheesy texture that's lighter than traditional heavy casseroles. It’s a hearty dish that feels good to eat, showcasing simple ingredients in a deliciously cohesive way.

Prepare for a dish that delivers on comfort without weighing you down. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of savory ground beef, expertly seasoned with fragrant garlic powder and aromatic Italian seasoning, perfectly complemented by the slightly sweet earthiness of tender zucchini rounds. You’ll experience the creamy tang of cottage cheese mingling with gooey, melted mozzarella and a hint of sharp Parmesan, all brought together by a vibrant crushed tomato sauce. This casserole promises a robust flavor profile that appeals to the whole family, providing a deeply satisfying and wholesome experience that's both hearty and surprisingly light.

Feel free to adjust this casserole to your pantry or preferences. If you don't have cottage cheese on hand, ricotta cheese is an excellent substitution for that creamy element. You can also vary the type of cooking oil, using avocado oil or olive oil interchangeably. For the liquid in the sauce, either broth or water works equally well.

This Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole is ideal for a comforting family dinner any night of the week. Serve it hot, perhaps alongside a crisp green salad or with a slice of crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the savory sauce. Don't forget to garnish with fresh basil for a vibrant finish.

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