Exclusive Ground Beef Zucchini Rice (Print)
Cheesy beef, zucchini and rice casserole. Creamy, satisfying dinner that's quick and easy for family meals.
# Ingredients:
→ Main
01 -
453 g ground beef
02 -
1 small onion, minced
03 -
1 teaspoon minced garlic
04 -
453 g zucchini, chopped
05 -
153 g cooked rice
06 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
07 -
398 g canned diced tomatoes
→ Dairy and Cheese
08 -
250 g cream cheese or ricotta
09 -
250 g shredded mozzarella
→ Pantry Staples
10 -
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
11 -
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
12 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Herbs and Garnish
13 -
Chopped parsley, to garnish
# Steps:
01 -
Preheat oven to 200°C. Grease a 23x33 cm baking dish with olive oil.
02 -
Season ground beef with sea salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Sear beef for 3 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks, then transfer to a plate.
03 -
Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Sauté minced onion, garlic, and chopped zucchini over medium heat for 2 minutes until softened.
04 -
Return beef to the skillet. Add cooked rice, Italian seasoning, and canned diced tomatoes. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer, then mix in cream cheese until well incorporated and creamy.
05 -
Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Evenly top with shredded mozzarella. Bake in preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and golden.
06 -
Remove casserole from oven and let rest for 10 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
Allowing the casserole to rest after baking ensures clean slices and improves flavor melding.
02 -
Use leftover rice for convenience and enhanced texture.