Description

This Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish combining juicy ground beef, tender sautéed zucchini, and a blend of melty mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Enhanced with garlic, herbs, and a creamy tomato sauce, this baked casserole is perfect for a hearty family meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Meat

1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)

Vegetables

2 medium zucchinis, sliced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy & Sauces

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
1/2 cup tomato sauce (optional, for added flavor)

Spices & Seasonings

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste

Other

Olive oil (for sautéing)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole later.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it while breaking it apart with a spoon until it is fully browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from being greasy.
Sauté the Vegetables: To the skillet with beef, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and releases its aroma. Stir in the sliced zucchini, dried oregano, dried basil, optional red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper. Continue to sauté for 5-7 minutes until the zucchini becomes tender but not mushy.
Combine the Ingredients: Stir in the heavy cream and the optional tomato sauce with the beef and vegetables. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Layer the Casserole: Transfer the beef and zucchini mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly over the top to create a cheesy layer.
Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this warm, cheesy, and hearty meal!

Notes

You can substitute turkey for ground beef for a leaner version of this casserole.
For a dairy-free option, replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives if preferred.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference or omit them altogether.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top before serving can enhance freshness and presentation.