Name: Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 lbs zucchini (sliced into rounds); 1 large yellow onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); Fresh basil (for garnish); 1 lb ground beef (90% lean); ½ cup cottage cheese (or ricotta cheese); ½ cup grated or shredded parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese; 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil; Salt & pepper (to taste); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 14 oz can crushed tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste; ½ cup broth or water

If you’re craving a wholesome meal that feels just like a warm hug, this Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant, comforting dish where tender zucchini slices mingle with savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and ooey-gooey cheese in perfect harmony. Every forkful delivers layers of flavor and texture that are utterly irresistible. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering, this casserole brings simple ingredients together to create something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pan with a light wood handle holds cooked ground beef mixed with small pieces of cooked onions. The beef is brown and crumbly, and the onions are soft and slightly translucent, all evenly spread across the pan. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to nailing this Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole Recipe. Each component plays a key role, from the juicy zucchini adding freshness and color to the melty cheeses that give it that decadent finish.

Zucchini (2 lbs, sliced into rounds): The star veggie that adds moisture, subtle sweetness, and a lovely green hue.
Avocado or olive oil (1 tbsp): For sautéing the onions and garlic, enriching the base flavors.
Yellow onion (1 large, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth to the meat mixture with a soft texture.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Boosts the aroma and gives a subtle spicy kick.
Ground beef (1 lb, 90% lean preferred): Provides a hearty protein foundation without too much extra fat.
Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring all flavors together.
Garlic powder (1 tsp): Enhances the garlicky warmth throughout the dish.
Italian seasoning (1 tsp): A fragrant mix of herbs adding an herbal complexity.
Cottage or ricotta cheese (½ cup): Brings a creamy, mild tang to the tomato sauce.
Crushed tomatoes (14 oz can): Forms the rich and tangy tomato base for the beef sauce.
Tomato paste (2 tbsp): Intensifies the sauce’s tomato flavor and thickens consistency.
Broth or water (½ cup): Keeps the sauce luscious without overpowering the other ingredients.
Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated/shredded): Adds a nutty, salty punch to the mixture.
Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts gorgeously on top, giving a bubbly, golden crust.
Fresh basil (for garnish): Offers a fresh, aromatic finish that brightens the entire dish.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Zucchini

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to go when your casserole is assembled. While waiting, slice the zucchini into nice, even rounds. To keep the casserole from getting watery, give the zucchini a sprinkle of salt and let it sit in a colander for 10 minutes. This pulls out excess moisture like a tiny flavor ninja.

Step 2: Dry the Zucchini

After waiting, pat the zucchini slices dry thoroughly with paper towels. This little extra effort ensures the casserole isn’t soggy, and that each bite has a lovely texture that won’t weigh down the dish.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Heat your avocado or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook until softened and just turning golden; this usually takes about five minutes. Then add the minced garlic and stir for another minute until it’s fragrant. This flavorful base sets the tone for the entire casserole.

Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with your spatula. Cook it until fully browned with no pink showing, about five to seven minutes. If there’s an excessive amount of fat, drain it off to keep the dish balanced and not greasy.

Step 5: Season and Make the Sauce

This is where the magic happens! Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning right into your beef. Then pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, broth or water, cottage cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Give it a good mix and let everything simmer gently for a couple of minutes to meld those flavors beautifully.

Step 6: Combine Half the Zucchini

Fold half of the prepped zucchini slices directly into your beef and sauce mixture. This integration helps distribute the tender veggie pieces throughout the casserole’s hearty center.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9×13 casserole dish with a bit of oil or cooking spray. Spread the beef-zucchini mixture evenly across the bottom, then arrange the remaining zucchini slices on top. Don’t worry if you can see some sauce peeking through—that just means every bite will have that perfect saucy goodness.

Step 8: First Bake

Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes to start melding the ingredients together while softening the zucchini on top.

Step 9: Add the Mozzarella Cheese

Carefully remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly all over the surface. This is the best part—moist cheese that will bubble and brown in the final step.

Step 10: Finish Baking

Return the casserole to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is fully melted with a beautiful, golden-brown crust that’s irresistibly inviting.

Step 11: Rest and Serve

Before slicing, let the dish rest for 5 to 10 minutes to allow everything to set slightly, so the layers stay intact when served. Garnish with fresh basil to add a fragrant, colorful pop that ties it all together perfectly.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole Recipe

A rectangular metal pan filled with one layer of stew-like mix, containing small cooked ground meat pieces, tomato chunks in a red sauce, and visible slices of green zucchini spread evenly across the surface. The texture looks soft and juicy with a slightly thick sauce binding the ingredients together. The pan sits on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding fresh basil leaves right before serving brings a burst of herbal brightness that beautifully contrasts the rich, cheesy layers. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or even a drizzle of good olive oil can elevate the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some garlic roasted potatoes. If you want something lighter, a simple side of steamed green beans or sautéed spinach adds a fresh veggie crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small ramekins. You can also layer this casserole over cooked quinoa or rice to make it a full, hearty meal on its own. Adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can bring a cooling creaminess that balances the warm spices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Simply cover it tightly and make sure it cools to room temperature first to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. To avoid freezer burn, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and a layer of foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to ensure even warming.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a microwave for a quick fix or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) covered loosely with foil until warmed through, about 20 minutes. This helps keep the cheese from drying out and the casserole juicy and satisfying.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! While ground beef is classic, ground turkey or chicken can make lighter alternatives. Just keep the seasoning the same to maintain that delicious depth of flavor.

Is cottage cheese necessary, or can I substitute?

Cottage cheese adds a lovely creaminess, but ricotta is a perfect substitute if you prefer a smoother texture. You can even blend cottage cheese before adding for an ultra-smooth sauce.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

No worries! You can make your own blend with dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. This blend mimics the flavor and keeps the dish wonderfully herby.

Can this casserole be made dairy-free?

Yes! Swap out the cheeses for dairy-free alternatives. Use plant-based ricotta or cottage cheese substitutes and dairy-free shredded cheese options to keep the same cheesy vibe.

How do I prevent the zucchini from making the casserole watery?

Salting and draining the zucchini before using is key. This draws out excess moisture so your casserole stays firm and flavorful, not soggy or runny.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole Recipe is one of those feel-good meals you’ll want to keep coming back to, especially on busy weeknights when comfort food calls your name. It’s approachable to make, packed with nutrient-rich veggies, and layered with so many inviting flavors and textures. Serve it with your favorite sides or enjoy it as is – either way, it’s pure, cheesy happiness in every bite. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your dinner rotation.