Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole Recipe

ByDorothy Miller
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This zucchini hamburger casserole is the perfect easy weeknight dinner that comes together quickly with simple ingredients. Ground beef and fresh zucchini bake together under a blanket of melted cheese for a comforting family meal. For another ground beef favorite, try this Easy Ground Beef and Parmesan Tortellini Recipe, or for a different cheesy option, these Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps Recipe are equally delicious.

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Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole

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A hearty casserole combining shredded zucchini, ground beef, and a blend of cheeses baked in tomato sauce for a comforting meal.

  • Author: Dorothy Miller
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 1x
  • Method: Main Dish
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups shredded unpeeled zucchini
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups (8 oz) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1 cup (4 oz) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped
  • 1 medium green pepper, chopped
  • 1 can (15 oz) Italian tomato sauce

Instructions

  1. Place zucchini in strainer; sprinkle with salt. Let stand for 10 minutes. Squeeze out moisture.
  2. Combine zucchini with the eggs, Parmesan, and half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Press into greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish.
  3. Bake, uncovered, at 400°F for 20 minutes.
  4. Meanwhile, cook beef, onion, and green pepper over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain.
  5. Add tomato sauce to the beef mixture; spoon over zucchini mixture.
  6. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
  7. Bake 20 minutes longer or until heated through.

Notes

This casserole can be adapted into a lasagna by layering zucchini with beef, pasta, and cheese. Squeezing out zucchini moisture is key to avoid a watery dish.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 6
  • Sodium: 700
  • Fat: 22
  • Saturated Fat: 10
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 10
  • Fiber: 3
  • Protein: 30
  • Cholesterol: 110

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Zucchini Hamburger Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble this Zucchini Hamburger Casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.

How can I prevent my casserole from being watery?

Sweating the zucchini with salt before assembling helps draw out excess moisture. Simply salt the sliced zucchini, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then pat it dry with paper towels. This step ensures your Zucchini Hamburger Casserole has the perfect texture.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat alternative work well in this recipe. The cooking method remains the same. This substitution allows you to customize your Zucchini Hamburger Casserole to suit different dietary needs.

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