Description
This Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole is a hearty, low-carb dish combining lean ground beef, fresh zucchini, quinoa, and a blend of cheeses, all baked to perfection with a rich tomato sauce and Italian seasonings. It’s an easy, comforting casserole perfect for a family dinner, balancing protein and vegetables in a flavorful, cheesy bake.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup dry quinoa (cooked according to package instructions)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup yellow cooking onion (diced)
- 6 zucchinis (approx 2 lbs, sliced into ¼ inch rounds)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 cups low sugar tomato sauce (marinara sauce)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup cottage cheese (ricotta cheese will also work)
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 2 tbsp parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Dish. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Cook Quinoa. Cook 1 cup of dry quinoa according to the package instructions, then set it aside once done to cool slightly.
- Cook Ground Beef Mixture. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, minced garlic, and diced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is no longer pink and onions are translucent and fragrant. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Drain any excess fat, then transfer the cooked meat and onions to the prepared casserole dish.
- Sauté Zucchini. In the same pan (no need to clean), add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. When hot, add the sliced zucchini rounds and season again with salt and pepper. Cover the pan and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini has softened but not turned mushy.
- Combine Casserole Ingredients. Add the cooked zucchini into the casserole dish with ground beef. Then add the cooked quinoa, dried oregano, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, low sugar tomato sauce, and cottage cheese. Stir gently using a spatula to evenly mix all ingredients. Spread the mixture into an even layer in the casserole dish.
- Add Cheeses and Bake. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the mixture, then top with the remaining mozzarella and the parmesan cheese evenly. Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25 minutes.
- Broil to Brown Cheese. After 25 minutes, switch the oven setting to broil and cook the casserole for an additional 5 minutes to brown and bubble the cheese topping nicely. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve. Remove the casserole from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then top with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your comforting and flavorful Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole!
Notes
- For a lower-fat option, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.
- Ricotta cheese can be used instead of cottage cheese for a creamier texture.
- Ensure zucchini is cooked until just tender to avoid sogginess in the casserole.
- Quinoa adds protein and fiber, making this dish more filling and nutritious.
- Adjust seasoning and spices to your taste preference, especially if you like more or less garlic or herbs.
- Keep an eye during broiling to prevent burning the cheese topping.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; bake before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
