Description
This Ground Beef Zucchini Bake is a hearty, nutrient-dense casserole that perfectly blends savory lean ground beef with fresh, tender zucchini. Bound together with creamy cottage cheese and a rich, herb-infused tomato sauce, this dish offers a sophisticated balance of textures and flavors. It is an ideal wholesome family dinner that comes together easily, providing a satisfying, high-protein meal that holds its shape beautifully when served. A delicious way to enjoy seasonal produce with a comforting, healthy twist.
Ingredients
1 lb 90/10 lean ground beef
3 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce or crushed tomatoes
1 cup cottage cheese
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the lean ground beef with the diced onion until the meat is fully cooked.
Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the marinara sauce and remove from heat.
In a 9×9 inch baking dish, create a layer of half the zucchini slices.
Spread the beef mixture over the zucchini, then dollop the cottage cheese evenly over the beef.
Place the remaining zucchini slices on top.
Sprinkle with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the meat mixture for added nutrition. Use a mandoline slicer to ensure the zucchini slices are uniform in thickness for even cooking. This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Ground Beef Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American/Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg