Here’s a satisfying and low-carb friendly Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole — a great way to use up garden zucchini and ground beef in a comforting, cheesy bake.
🧀🥩 Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Ingredients:
Main:
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1 lb (450g) ground beef
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2–3 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds or half-moons
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (14 oz / 400g) can diced tomatoes (drained) or 1 cup marinara sauce
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1/2 tsp dried oregano
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1/2 tsp dried basil
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1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar (or your favorite melty cheese)
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional:
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1 egg (helps bind if you like a firmer casserole)
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1/2 cup sour cream or ricotta (for a creamy layer)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
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In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
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Drain excess fat if needed.
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Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
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Stir in garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and drained tomatoes (or marinara).
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Simmer for 5–10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Prep the Zucchini:
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Slice zucchini thinly (rounds or half-moons).
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Optional: lightly salt and let sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry to reduce moisture.
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You can sauté the zucchini briefly (2–3 minutes) or leave it raw for a firmer bite.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Layer as follows:
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Bottom layer: Half the zucchini
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Middle layer: All the beef mixture
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Optional creamy layer: Dollop or spread sour cream/ricotta and the egg (if using)
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Top layer: Remaining zucchini
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Sprinkle shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan over the top.
5. Bake:
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Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
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Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
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Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving (helps it firm up).
📝 Notes & Tips:
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Want a keto version? Use full-fat cheese and avoid tomatoes with added sugar.
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Want it spicier? Add chili flakes or a spoonful of diced jalapeños to the beef.
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Too watery? Pre-salt or grill zucchini slices first, or add a tablespoon of tomato paste to thicken the beef mixture.