This Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a hearty dish packed with layers of ground beef, fresh zucchini, and cheesy goodness. It’s a quick and tasty meal that everyone will love!
You can even sneak in some extra veggies if your family won’t notice. 
I like to serve it hot with a side of bread for a complete dinner that feels cozy and satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base of the casserole. I recommend using lean ground beef for less grease. If you want a lighter version, ground turkey or chicken works great too!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are key for texture and moisture. If zucchinis aren’t available, you can use other squashes like yellow squash or even eggplant.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess. If you’re in a pinch, cottage cheese can be used as a lower-fat substitute. Just blend it a bit for a smoother consistency!
Cheeses: I love mozzarella for its gooey texture. If you want more flavor, you could mix in some provolone or gouda. Vegetarian options include plant-based cheeses, which melt well.
Marinara Sauce: Any tomato-based sauce can work here. You can also use homemade sauce or even add a bit of pesto for a twist!
How Do I Layer the Casserole for the Best Results?
Layering might seem tricky, but it’s key for flavor and cooking. Start with a good base to prevent sogginess.
- First, coat the bottom of your dish with a layer of zucchini. This helps to absorb any extra moisture from the meat and sauce.
- Next, add a layer of meat sauce to lock in the flavor.
- Continue alternating layers, finishing with cheese on top for a golden, bubbly crust. Each layer brings different flavors together!
Covering with foil helps cook it through without burning the top. Remove the foil towards the end to achieve that crispy cheese layer I love!
Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or mixed oregano, basil, thyme)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes approximately 15-20 minutes to prepare and then about 40 minutes to bake (25 minutes covered and 10-15 minutes uncovered). You’ll be enjoying a fantastic meal in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly when it’s time to put it in the oven!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. If there’s extra fat, drain it to keep the casserole from being greasy.
4. Add Sauce and Seasoning:
Stir in the marinara sauce and dried Italian seasoning. Let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
In a greased casserole dish, lay down half of the zucchini slices evenly at the bottom. Then, spread half of the meat sauce over the zucchini. Next, dot half of the ricotta cheese over the sauce.
6. Layer the Remaining Ingredients:
Now, add the remaining zucchini slices as another layer, followed by the rest of the meat sauce, and finish with the remaining ricotta. Don’t forget to sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for that cheesy goodness!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the casserole out and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, then dish it up and enjoy this comforting meal with your family!
Enjoy your comforting, cheesy ground beef and zucchini casserole!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for ground beef if you’re looking for a healthier option. Just make sure to season them well since they can be milder in flavor.
How Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, you can substitute the ground beef with a mixture of lentils, quinoa, or your favorite plant-based meat substitute. Also, add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor!
What Can I Do with Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. It also freezes well; just make sure to package it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes of baking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge!
