This old fashioned zucchini casserole with ground beef is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender zucchini, savory ground beef, and a flavorful tomato sauce. It’s a classic family meal that’s budget-friendly and easy to prepare. This casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your household, offering a delicious way to enjoy fresh zucchini and ground beef in a satisfying baked dish.
Key Takeaways
- This old fashioned zucchini casserole features tender zucchini and savory ground beef in a flavorful tomato sauce.
- It’s a classic, budget-friendly family meal that’s easy to prepare.
- The casserole can easily be doubled to serve a larger crowd.
- It’s a great way to enjoy fresh zucchini and ground beef in a satisfying baked dish.
- The casserole is sure to become a new household favorite.
Grandma’s Budget Friendly Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
This hearty and flavorful ground beef zucchini casserole is inspired by the author’s husband’s grandmother, Grandma Lamb. It’s a budget-friendly dish that’s perfect for using up an abundance of zucchini from the garden. The casserole features tender zucchini, savory ground beef, and a delicious tomato sauce, all baked together with a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Meaty Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Ground beef is the star of this casserole, providing a satisfying and protein-rich base. The recipe calls for either ground chuck, which has a 20% fat content for juicier cooked meat, or ground sirloin, which has a leaner 10% fat content for a meatier texture. With just 23 minutes of active preparation time, this casserole comes together quickly, making it a great weeknight meal option.
Meals to Make with Zucchini
Zucchini is the perfect ingredient for stretching out budget-friendly meals. This ground beef zucchini casserole is just one of the many delicious ways to use up an abundance of zucchini. Other popular zucchini recipes include zucchini lasagna, zucchini fritters, and zucchini noodle stir-fries. The versatility of zucchini makes it a fantastic budget friendly addition to a variety of dishes.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 2 lbs |
| Zucchini | 2 lbs |
| Tomato Sauce | 1 (15 oz) can |
| Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups, shredded |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
“This budget friendlyground beef zucchini casserole is a family-favorite recipe that’s been passed down for generations. It’s a great way to use up all that extra zucchini from the garden!”
Ingredients for Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
This comforting ground beef zucchini casserole is made with simple, easy-to-find ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The key ingredients include:
- Ground beef – The recipe calls for 1 lb. of lean ground beef, which provides the hearty, meaty base for the casserole.
- Zucchini – You’ll need 2 lbs. of fresh zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces. This contributes to the rich, comforting nature of the dish.
- Canned diced tomatoes – A 14 oz. can of diced tomatoes adds flavor and moisture to the casserole.
- Garlic and onion – 2 cloves of garlic and 1/2 cup of diced yellow onion provide aromatic depth.
- Breadcrumbs – 1 cup of breadcrumbs helps bind the casserole and creates a delicious crispy topping.
- Herbs and spices – 1 tbsp. of Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper, season the dish to perfection.
- Cheese – 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese add a gooey, cheesy element.
- Marinara or spaghetti sauce – 1/2 cup of your favorite sauce ties all the flavors together.
With these easy-to-find ground beef zucchini casserole ingredients, you can quickly assemble a comforting and easy casserole that the whole family will love.
Steps to Making Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
Get ready to create a delicious and hearty ground beef zucchini casserole that will satisfy the whole family. This classic dish is a fantastic way to use up seasonal zucchini and ground beef. Follow these simple steps to assemble this comforting casserole:
How to Make Homemade Bread Crumbs
For a budget-friendly option, you can easily make your own homemade breadcrumbs. All you need is some stale bread or buns. Simply tear the bread into small pieces, then pulse in a food processor or blender until you have coarse crumbs. This homemade version makes a great topping for the casserole.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with oil or non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and crumbled, 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced zucchini, canned diced tomatoes, and your desired seasonings. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Transfer the ground beef and zucchini mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with shredded cheese and the homemade breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this hearty and comforting dish!
By following these simple steps, you’ll have a delicious and budget-friendly ground beef zucchini casserole on the table in no time. The homemade breadcrumbs add a nice crunchy topping, and the combination of ground beef, zucchini, and tomatoes creates a satisfying and flavorful meal. Enjoy!
Zucchini with Ground Beef and Tomato Sauce
When it comes to creating a delightful zucchini casserole, the combination of ground beef, zucchini, and a flavorful tomato sauce is a winning formula. This baked zucchini casserole showcases the versatility of this summer squash, blending it seamlessly with savory ground beef and a rich, tomato-based sauce.
To assemble this comforting dish, the ground beef, zucchini, and tomato mixture is first sautéed in a pan with olive oil and onions. The fragrant blend is then poured into a greased casserole dish, where a layer of breadcrumbs is sprinkled over the top, followed by a generous helping of mozzarella cheese. The casserole is then baked in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until the cheese is melted and the dish is hot and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
This zucchini casserole with ground beef and tomato is not only delicious but also a versatile meal option. Variations can include substituting the ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage, or adding in additional vegetables like diced peppers or mushrooms. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the dish to your family’s preferences.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty main course or a flavorful side dish, this baked zucchini casserole is sure to please. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal that showcases the best of summer’s bounty.
Hearty and Nourishing Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
This hearty and nourishing ground beef zucchini casserole is a delightful dish that’s packed with protein, vegetables, and melty cheese. The recipe utilizes lean ground beef, juicy zucchini, and a blend of flavorful seasonings to create a satisfying and low-carb meal.
Instructions for Cooking
To make the hearty ground beef zucchini casserole, start by browning the lean ground beef in a skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the beef is cooked through, add a diced onion and minced garlic cloves. Sauté until the onion is translucent. Then, stir in 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
Next, add a 28-ounce can of diced tomatoes and the sliced zucchini (about 2 pounds). Simmer the mixture for 5-10 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender. Transfer the beef and zucchini mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake the nourishing zucchini casserole at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat. Ricotta cheese can also be used instead of cottage cheese for a creamier texture. Feel free to add in additional vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or red onions, to enhance the flavor and nutrient content of the dish.
The hearty ground beef zucchini casserole is a versatile and budget-friendly dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its combination of protein, vegetables, and cheese, it’s a nourishing and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve prepared and baked your delectable ground beef zucchini casserole, you’ll want to ensure it stays fresh and ready to enjoy for days to come. Here’s how to properly store and reheat this comforting dish:
The ground beef zucchini casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer-term storage, the casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, simply defrost the casserole in the refrigerator overnight, then bake it in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
Reheating the casserole is a breeze – you can either warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven. If reheating in the oven, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until piping hot.
By following these easy storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your ground beef zucchini casserole throughout the week or save it for a future meal. The casserole’s flavors will only continue to meld and deepen, making it an even more satisfying and comforting dish.
Remember, proper storage and reheating techniques are key to preserving the texture and flavor of your delicious ground beef zucchini casserole. Follow these guidelines, and you’ll be able to savor every bite, even days after baking.
Tips for Mixing and Assembling the Casserole
Crafting the perfect ground beef zucchini casserole requires a bit of finesse. Here are some valuable tips to ensure your dish turns out delightfully delicious:
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly in a large bowl before transferring them to the prepared casserole dish. This helps ensure even distribution of the flavors and textures throughout the casserole.
- If you have larger zucchini slices, consider cutting them in half or quarters to help them fit snugly in the baking dish. This will prevent any gaps or empty spaces in the final assembly.
- Gently press down the ingredients in the dish to create a compact, even layer. This helps the casserole bake evenly and prevents any areas from drying out.
- Top the casserole with a generous layer of shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, or crushed crackers to create a delectable golden-brown crust on top.
- If the casserole seems a bit dry, feel free to drizzle a bit of extra enchilada sauce or broth over the top before baking. This will help keep the dish moist and flavorful.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to assembling a ground beef zucchini casserole that’s both visually appealing and bursting with delicious, homemade flavor.
old fashioned zucchini casserole with ground beef
Prepare to be transported back in time with this classic old fashioned zucchini casserole with ground beef. This comforting dish combines tender zucchini, savory ground beef, and a flavorful tomato sauce, creating a family-friendly meal that’s both easy to prepare and budget-friendly.
The total time to make this delightful casserole is just 1 hour, and the recipe calls for 1 pound of ground beef, 2 pounds of sliced zucchini, 2 Roma tomatoes, and a variety of herbs like dill and parsley. The end result is a nutritious and satisfying dish that packs 204 calories per serving, with 13 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber.
Whether you’re looking to use up a surplus of fresh zucchini from the farmer’s market or craving a comforting, old-fashioned meal, this classic zucchini casserole with ground beef is sure to hit the spot. So, let’s dive into the recipe and experience the flavors of a bygone era!
To ensure perfectly cooked zucchini, it’s important to slice the pieces into uniform sizes for even baking. And don’t forget to drain any excess fat from the cooked ground beef to prevent a soggy casserole. For a delicious topping, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as sharp cheddar or parmesan.
This dish can also be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for up to 3 months, making it a convenient and versatile option for busy weeknights. When reheating leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the comforting flavors of this old fashioned zucchini casserole with ground beef and experience a taste of nostalgia in every bite.
Nutritional Information
The ground beef zucchini casserole is a nutritious and well-balanced meal, providing a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. A single serving contains approximately 472 calories, 37 grams of protein, 35 grams of carbohydrates, and 21 grams of fat.
In addition to the macronutrients, this casserole is also a good source of several important micronutrients. Each serving contains:
- Calcium: 183mg
- Vitamin C: 16mg
- Vitamin A: 619IU
- Sodium: 692mg
- Cholesterol: 53mg
The casserole also provides a decent amount of fiber, with 2 grams per serving, and potassium, with 287mg per serving. Overall, the nutrition information for zucchini casserole and calories in ground beef zucchini casserole indicates that this dish is a nutritious and satisfying meal option.
“This casserole is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while still enjoying the comforting flavors of ground beef and cheese.”
The Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef recipe serves up to eight people and takes approximately 45 minutes to prepare. The casserole will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator after being cooked.
Boasting 2 Pounds of Zucchini in a Cheesy Baked Pasta
This ground beef zucchini casserole is like a cheesy, saucy baked pasta dish, but with the addition of 2 pounds of zucchini that’s grated and essentially “hidden” in the sauce. The result is a comforting, veggie-packed meal that can also be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free pasta.
Making it Gluten-Free
To make this zucchini baked pasta gluten-free, simply substitute the regular pasta with a gluten-free variety. The hidden vegetable pasta casserole will be just as delicious and satisfying, but without the gluten. You can also use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for the topping to ensure the entire dish is gluten-free.
The gluten-free ground beef zucchini casserole is a great way to sneak in extra veggies while still enjoying a comforting, cheesy baked pasta dish. The zucchini blends seamlessly into the sauce, making it a fantastic way to get picky eaters to enjoy their vegetables.
“This zucchini casserole is the perfect way to use up all that summer zucchini – it’s so cheesy and delicious, you’ll never know there’s 2 pounds of veggies hiding in there!”
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
One of the best things about this hearty ground beef zucchini casserole is that it makes fantastic leftovers. Whether you’re looking to store zucchini casserole leftovers or reheat ground beef zucchini casserole, we’ve got you covered with these simple tips.
The ground beef zucchini casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
If you’d like to keep the casserole for longer, it can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, simply transfer the casserole to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Then, bake it in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbling.
No matter whether you’re storing or reheating, this zucchini casserole with ground beef is sure to be just as delicious the second time around. Enjoy!
Conclusion
The old fashioned zucchini casserole with ground beef is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for feeding the whole family. This budget-friendly meal is easy to prepare and packed with healthy vegetables and savory ground beef. Whether you’re looking to use up an abundance of zucchini or simply want a delicious and nourishing dinner, this casserole is sure to become a new family favorite.
The recipe provides a balance of essential nutrients, including vitamins C and A, potassium, folate, and fiber, making it a nutritious choice. The dish can be customized to suit individual preferences, with options to adjust the sweetness or use different types of beans. With a prep time of around 30 minutes and a total cooking time of 25-30 minutes, this casserole is a quick and convenient solution for busy weeknights.
Overall, the old fashioned zucchini casserole with ground beef is a delightful and satisfying meal that combines the flavors of savory ground beef, tender zucchini, and a creamy, cheesy topping. Whether you serve it as the main course or alongside a fresh salad, this recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
FAQ
What is the main ingredient in this old fashioned zucchini casserole?
The main ingredients in this old fashioned zucchini casserole are ground beef and zucchini.
What makes this ground beef zucchini casserole budget-friendly?
This ground beef zucchini casserole is budget-friendly because it uses mostly household staple ingredients, and you can even make your own breadcrumbs from stale bread or buns to save money.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make this ground beef zucchini casserole gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free pasta in place of the breadcrumbs.
How long can I store this ground beef zucchini casserole?
This ground beef zucchini casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
What are some tips for assembling the ground beef zucchini casserole?
Tips for assembling the ground beef zucchini casserole include mixing the ingredients in a large bowl before transferring them to the casserole dish if needed, and cutting larger zucchini slices in half or quarters to ensure everything fits in the pan.
What are the key nutrients in this ground beef zucchini casserole?
This ground beef zucchini casserole is a nutritious and well-balanced meal, providing a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
Source Links
- Grandma’s Budget Friendly Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole – Hickory Hollow Farm Beef
- Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
- Easy Hobo Casserole
- Everyone Loves This Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole
- Ground Beef & Zucchini Casserole
- Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef
- Beefy Zucchini Casserole
- Meaty Zucchini Casserole
- Best Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole Recipe (low carb)
- Ground beef and Zucchini Casserole
- Zucchini Tomato Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe – These Old Cookbooks
- Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole
- Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet
- Zucchini Casserole with Hamburger
- Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole
- Ground Beef Orzo and Zucchini Casserole – Workweek Lunch
- Beef Enchilada Casserole with Zucchini
- Cheesy Zucchini Casserole – Healthy Recipes Blog
- Baked Zucchini Casserole
- Old Fashioned Zucchini Casserole – Every Little Crumb
- Zucchini Casserole with Ground Beef
- Our Most Popular Casserole Recipe Ever: Sausage, Rice, Zucchini & Cheese – Foodlets
- Cheesy Beef & Macaroni Casserole
- Zucchini Casserole
- Zucchini Casserole Recipe – Rachel Cooks®
- Zucchini Casserole
- Zucchini Casserole (Easy & Cheesy!) – Wholesome Yum
- Stuffed Zucchini with Meat / Italian Style
- zucchini rice and cheese gratin
- Baked Three Bean Casserole