Beef and Zucchini Casserole

Craving comfort food that still feels wholesome? This Beef and Zucchini Casserole layers savory ground beef, tender zucchini, and melted cheese into a warm, satisfying dish that’s both nourishing and indulgent.

With just a few simple steps, this casserole transforms basic ingredients into a cozy oven-baked dinner. It’s perfect when you want something filling without a lot of prep—and it reheats beautifully for leftovers the next day.

How to make Easy Beef and Zucchini Casserole

Makes approximately 6-8 servings

Equipment Needed

Measuring cups and spoons, cutting board, knife, large skillet, meat chopper or spatula, 9×13-inch casserole dish

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef 
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Fresh parsley, to garnish

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees, and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Dice your onion and slice the zucchinis.

3. Add the ground beef to a large skillet, and cook over medium heat until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

4. Add the onion and garlic, and continue cooking for about a minute. Stir the sauce and seasonings into the meat mixture. Set aside.

5. Arrange the zucchini slices in rows in a 9×13-inch casserole dish, slightly overlapping each other.

6. Pour the meat and sauce over the zucchini, then sprinkle with mozzarella.

7. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.

8. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, and allow the casserole to stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Helpful Tips for the Best Beef and Zucchini Casserole

• Use lean ground beef: Reduces excess grease in the casserole.
• Slice zucchini evenly: Ensures consistent baking.
• Season generously: Enhances the beef and balances the zucchini.
• Bake uncovered: Helps excess moisture evaporate.
• Rest before serving: Allows layers to set nicely.

Beef and Zucchini Casserole

Print

An easy Beef and Zucchini Casserole made with seasoned ground beef, marinara sauce, zucchini, and melted mozzarella cheese.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 35 minutes

Down Time 5 minutes

Total Time 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Fresh parsley, to garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees, and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Dice your onion and slice the zucchinis.
3. Add the ground beef to a large skillet and cook over medium heat until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
4. Add the onion and garlic, and continue cooking for about a minute. Stir the sauce and seasonings into the meat mixture. Set aside.
5. Arrange the zucchini slices in rows in a 9x13-inch casserole dish, slightly overlapping each other.
6. Pour the meat and sauce over the zucchini, then sprinkle with mozzarella.
7. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
8. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, and allow the casserole to stand for 5 minutes before serving.