Cheesy beef and zucchini casserole is a hearty and delicious dish that combines tender beef, fresh zucchini, and a cheesy sauce to create a comforting and satisfying meal. This casserole is packed with flavor and makes for a perfect dinner option. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating a mouthwatering cheesy beef and zucchini casserole that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
1 pound lean ground beef
2 medium zucchini, sliced into half moons
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup marinara sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer the mixture for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and combines with the beef and vegetable mixture.
Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the beef and zucchini mixture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, before serving.
Serve the cheesy beef and zucchini casserole warm, allowing each person to enjoy a generous portion. This flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or for entertaining guests. It pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread.
Note: Feel free to customize the casserole by adding additional vegetables like mushrooms or spinach. You can also sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top for added texture before baking. Enjoy the comforting and cheesy goodness of this delicious casserole!
