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Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef

Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • Main Ingredients
  • 4 medium zucchini sliced or diced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¾ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional Seasonings and Add-Ins
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes well-drained
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or basil

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Zucchini
  • Slice or dice zucchini evenly and sprinkle lightly with salt; let sit 10–15 minutes.
  • Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet and sauté zucchini 3–4 minutes until slightly tender. Remove from heat.
  • Cook the Ground Beef
  • Heat remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Sauté onion until soft, then add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  • Stir in garlic and optional seasonings, cook 1 more minute, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  • Mix the Casserole Base
  • In a large bowl, whisk eggs and sour cream until smooth.
  • Add half of the mozzarella and Parmesan, season lightly with salt and pepper.
  • Fold in cooked beef and zucchini gently until evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  • Assemble and Bake
  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Spread mixture evenly in the dish.
  • Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
  • Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until top is lightly browned and bubbling.
  • Let rest 10 minutes before slicing to help firm up.

Notes

Drain zucchini well to avoid a watery casserole.
Use full-fat dairy for the creamiest texture.
Don’t skip resting after baking for easier slicing.
Season the beef generously—zucchini is mild.
Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded.