When you need a meal that wraps comfort, flavor, and cozy weeknight ease all into one, look no further than this Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole. From its golden, crunchy topping to the layers of tender zucchini and savory beef, this casserole is a home-cooked triumph that brings everyone to the table with wide-eyed anticipation. Whether you’re making this for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or simply craving something hearty yet packed with veggies, this casserole will win hearts and vanish from plates faster than you can say “seconds, please!”
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something so reassuring about a recipe that makes magic from everyday ingredients. Each item in this Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole plays its own special role—whether it’s adding creaminess, a punch of flavor, or that irresistible crispy finish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground Beef (1 lb): The hearty base that brings satisfying richness and a delicious, savory bite.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Helps sauté the aromatics, making them lush and fragrant while adding a hint of flavor.
- Yellow Onion, diced (1 small): Brings a little sweetness and depth to every forkful.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Elevates everything with its robust, mouthwatering aroma.
- Zucchini, sliced in half-moons (3 cups): Adds moisture, color, and a tender bite that lightens up the casserole.
- Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup (10.5 oz): Gives luscious creaminess and a subtle, earthy note.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Blends in tang and smooth richness, creating a dreamy sauce.
- Cheddar Cheese, shredded (1 cup): Melts into gooey goodness, making every bite satisfyingly cheesy.
- Dried Basil (1/2 tsp): Infuses a gentle herby warmth that complements the zucchini beautifully.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Essential for drawing out every wonderful flavor.
- Black Pepper (1/4 tsp): Brings just the right touch of gentle heat.
- Seasoned Stuffing Mix (1 1/2 cups): The secret to that crisp, savory crust on top.
- Melted Butter (3 tbsp): Coats the stuffing mix for golden, buttery crunch.
How to Make Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so your casserole releases easily and gets a bit of golden color around the edges. This step sets you up for a no-fuss serving later and helps everything bake evenly.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled. There’s nothing quite like that aroma! Make sure to break the meat into small pieces so every bite is loaded with flavor. Once it’s browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. If there’s excess grease, drain it off for a lighter casserole.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Zucchini
In the same skillet, warm the olive oil. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for just 2–3 minutes. Watch as the kitchen fills with their mouthwatering scent. Toss in the sliced zucchini and sauté for 5–7 minutes until just tender. This helps concentrate their sweetness and ensures your Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole isn’t watery.
Step 4: Combine the Fillings
Return the browned beef to your skillet, then stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until it’s fully combined and heated through. This is where all those luscious flavors marry together to create the creamy, cheesy heart of your casserole.
Step 5: Layer and Top
Pour your creamy beef and zucchini mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer. In a small bowl, toss together the seasoned stuffing mix and melted butter until every crumb is coated. Sprinkle this crunchy mixture evenly over the top for the ultimate golden finish.
Step 6: Bake and Enjoy!
Slide your casserole into the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 25–30 minutes. It’s done when the top is beautifully golden and the sides are bubbling invitingly. Give it a few minutes to cool before serving—if you can resist!
How to Serve Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions right before serving for a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the cozy flavors of your Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole. If you love a little heat, a light dusting of crushed red pepper takes things up a notch.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or simple roasted vegetables. For a touch of indulgence, serve with warm rolls to soak up every delicious bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking your Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole in individual ramekins for a dinner-party feel, or spoon it into smaller scoops and top with an extra sprinkle of cheddar for fun, family-friendly portions. Serving it in a deep cast iron skillet also adds rustic flair and keeps things nice and hot at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers are a joy! Simply let the casserole cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully and leftovers reheat perfectly for a quick lunch.
Freezing
You can freeze your Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15–20 minutes. For individual portions, the microwave works in a pinch, but finishing in the oven helps bring back that delightfully crispy topping.
FAQs
Can I make Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the regular stuffing mix for a gluten-free version, and double-check your condensed soup ingredients are gluten-free. The casserole is just as tasty and satisfying.
Is it possible to use a different type Main Course
Yes, and it’s a great way to add variety! Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack all melt beautifully into the sauce. Don’t be shy—experiment with your favorites or use up what you have on hand.
What kind of ground meat can I use besides beef?
Try ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative if you want to switch things up or lighten the casserole. Just adjust seasonings as needed to complement your chosen protein.
Can I add extra vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or fresh tomatoes tucked in with the zucchini add more color, flavor, and nutrition. Just be sure to sauté extra veggies first to avoid adding watery texture to your Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole.
How do I prevent the casserole from getting soggy?
The key is in properly sautéing your zucchini and any additional veggies to release excess moisture before assembling. Also, don’t skimp on that golden stuffing crust—it helps lock in the filling’s creaminess while adding a crunchy, satisfying top.
Final Thoughts
There’s a special kind of satisfaction in pulling a bubbling, golden-topped Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole from the oven and watching it disappear as friends and family go in for seconds. I can’t recommend this dish enough for its irresistible blend of flavors and textures—it’s pure comfort, made simple. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself saving it as a staple for cozy evenings and jubilant gatherings alike!
Print
Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines savory ground beef, tender zucchini, creamy mushroom sauce, and gooey cheddar cheese, all topped with a buttery stuffing crust. Easy to make and comforting to eat, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 cups zucchini (sliced into half-moons)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Stuffing Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups seasoned stuffing mix
- 3 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add zucchini and cook until tender.
- Combine ingredients: Return beef to the skillet, add mushroom soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Assemble casserole: Transfer mixture to baking dish.
- Add topping: Combine stuffing mix and butter. Sprinkle over casserole.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken.
- You can customize with different types of soup or homemade versions.
- Add extra veggies like tomatoes or bell peppers for more variety.
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