Cheesy Beef Zucchini Casserole

This easy cheesy beef zucchini casserole checks every box when you need something comforting but also loaded with good-for-you veggies. It comes together fast and gets its gooey deliciousness from lots of cheese layered with ground beef and tender zucchini. This recipe went straight into our weeknight rotation after a hectic school day and the whole family keeps asking for it.

I first made this on a night when everyone got home late and it felt like there was nothing in the fridge. Now it is my go-to when I want comfort food but still want us to eat healthfully.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: brings protein and flavor look for eighty five percent lean or better for the best texture and less grease
• Onion: diced adds sweetness and depth yellow or white onion work well for this
• Garlic cloves: minced boost savory flavor always use fresh if you can
• Zucchinis: sliced these keep the casserole moist and add nutrients choose smaller zucchinis for tender slices and less water
• Marinara sauce: pulls it all together and gives it bright tomato flavor pick your favorite jarred version or homemade if you have it
• Mozzarella cheese: shredded makes that classic melt look for block mozzarella and shred it yourself for best melting
• Parmesan cheese: grated finishes with a nutty salty kick buy a wedge and grate fresh for flavor
• Italian seasoning: brings more herby flavor look for a mix without too much salt
• Paprika: amps up the color and just a hint of smokiness use sweet paprika if possible
• Red pepper flakes: add a bit of background heat increase for extra spice or skip for the kids

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Oven and Pan:

Set the oven to three hundred seventy five degrees and lightly grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray

Brown the Beef and Aromatics:

Add ground beef onion and garlic to a large skillet over medium heat Cook and stir until the beef is browned breaking it up as you go Drain off any excess grease so your casserole is not oily

Mix the Filling:

In a big bowl combine the cooked beef mixture half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese sliced zucchini marinara sauce Italian seasoning paprika and red pepper flakes Stir really well so everything gets coated and nicely distributed

Assemble the Casserole:

Spoon the mixture into the greased baking dish and smooth it into an even layer Scatter the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan all over the top

Bake Until Bubbly:

Place the dish into the oven and bake for twenty five to thirty minutes The cheese on top should be golden and bubbling and the zucchini fork tender

Rest and Serve:

Take the casserole out of the oven and give it five to ten minutes to rest This makes it easier to slice and serve without everything falling apart

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My favorite part is always the crispy golden edges where the cheese bubbles up I remember coming home after baseball practice and smelling this in the oven it tasted even better the next day

Storage Tips

Store any leftover casserole tightly covered in the fridge for up to three days For best results reheat individual portions in the microwave or rewarm the whole dish in the oven at three hundred fifty degrees until hot all the way through The casserole also freezes well after baking just let it cool completely wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have ground beef use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option For a dairy free version try plant based cheeses and leave out the Parmesan Swap zucchini for yellow squash or a mix for color Use any cheese that melts well like Monterey Jack or a sharp cheddar if you like a more pronounced cheese flavor

Serving Suggestions

Scoop generous portions onto plates or shallow bowls Served with garlic bread or a leafy green salad for a complete meal The casserole also makes a great next day lunch and can be sliced into squares for an easy grab and go option Warm leftovers in a skillet for a slightly crisped bottom which is always a hit

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Cultural and Historical Context

This casserole takes inspiration from classic American comfort food casseroles but lightens things up by swapping noodles or rice for zucchini The result is just as satisfying but adds a fresh veggie spin Inspired by busy family tables everywhere casseroles like this are perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead

Recipe FAQs

→ How should zucchini be prepared to prevent excess moisture?

Slice zucchini evenly and pat dry with a paper towel to minimize extra moisture and keep the bake firm.

→ Can ground turkey be used instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for beef for a lighter option with similar results.

→ What cheeses work best in this dish?

Freshly shredded mozzarella and Parmesan melt well and give a rich, golden topping.

→ How spicy is this casserole?

The spice is mild, but red pepper flakes or hot sauce can be added to boost heat to taste.

→ Can this casserole be made ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake for a quick weeknight meal.

→ Should the casserole rest before serving?

Letting it set for 5-10 minutes makes it easier to slice and enhances the texture.