Description
This Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole is a comforting and low-carb dinner that combines tender beef, zucchini, and gooey melted cheese for the perfect savory dish. Great for meal prep or feeding the whole family!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 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)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). -
Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary. -
Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the sliced zucchini, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the zucchini is tender. -
Combine the Ingredients
Stir in the heavy cream and tomato sauce (if using), and bring to a simmer for 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste. -
Layer the Casserole
Transfer the beef and zucchini mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella and cheddar cheese. -
Bake the Casserole
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. -
Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, comforting meal!
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat or omit the beef entirely for a vegetarian casserole.
- Make it Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Customize: Feel free to add more veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for additional flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 80mg