Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole

Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole

from healthfulblondie.com
40 min

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.