If you’re craving pure, bubbling comfort with a dose of veggies built in, get ready to fall for this Cheesy Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole. It’s a hearty dinner that blends browned beef, juicy zucchini, tangy tomatoes, and two kinds of melty cheese, all brought together with a creamy swirl of sour cream. Whether you’re feeding a family or planning a week of easy leftovers, this casserole brings classic home-cooked flavors and a cozy, crowd-pleasing vibe you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, and each ingredient brings something essential to the table — from savory depth to irresistible gooeyness. Gather these simple components, and you’ll have everything you need for a winning Cheesy Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole in no time.

Ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for a flavorful foundation without too much grease.
Medium zucchinis: Sliced zucchini adds freshness and mild sweetness that lightens the casserole.
Small onion: Diced onion infuses savory, aromatic notes throughout the dish.
Garlic cloves: Minced garlic gives a subtle kick and rounds out the flavor.
Canned diced tomatoes: Drained tomatoes provide juicy acidity for balance.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it forms that irresistible cheesy layer.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: For that classic stretchy, bubbly cheese pull.
Sour cream: Adds a creamy, tangy richness that brings everything together.
Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs ties the flavors together beautifully.
Salt: Enhances all of the savory elements.
Black pepper: Adds subtle warmth.
Red pepper flakes (optional): Use these for a gentle, background heat.
Olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics and ensuring nothing sticks.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Baking Dish

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it good and hot. Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with oil or nonstick spray—this guarantees easy serving and a golden bottom crust for your Cheesy Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole.

Step 2: Brown the Beef with Onions and Garlic

In a large skillet, warm your olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring until they’re fragrant and just translucent. Add your ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until it’s beautifully browned. Be sure to drain away any excess fat so your casserole isn’t greasy.

Step 3: Toss in the Zucchini and Tomatoes

Add the sliced zucchini, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and (if you love a little kick) the red pepper flakes. Simmer everything for about 5 minutes—this softens the zucchini just enough while letting those garden-bright flavors mingle.

Step 4: Stir in the Sour Cream Off the Heat

Remove your skillet from the heat before adding the sour cream—this ensures it stays creamy and doesn’t curdle. Stir it in until the mixture looks luscious and evenly blended, then taste and adjust any seasonings if needed.

Step 5: Assemble and Top with Cheese

Spoon the beef and zucchini mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella over the top, ensuring every bite will have plenty of cheesy goodness.

Step 6: Bake Until Hot and Bubbly

Place the casserole in your hot oven and let it bake for 20 minutes. When you see the cheese melt into a bubbling, golden layer, it’s ready! Let it rest for a few minutes before cutting—this helps the cheesy layers set just enough to serve perfect slices.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley over the finished Cheesy Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole just before serving adds a burst of color and freshness. For extra flavor, try a pinch of red chili flakes or a dusting of grated Parmesan.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or some garlicky bread on the side. If you’re looking for heartier fare, serve it alongside rice, quinoa, or even creamy mashed potatoes to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, try baking your Cheesy Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole in individual ramekins for easy, elegant servings. Or stuff the filling into hollowed-out bell peppers for a veggie-packed twist on classic presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer cooled leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making your next meal even more irresistible.

Freezing

You can freeze Cheesy Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole by wrapping the cooled, baked casserole tightly or portioning into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through (about 20 minutes), or microwave individual portions. Add a touch more cheese on top before reheating for that fresh, bubbly finish!

FAQs

Can I substitute other vegetables for the zucchini?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or yellow squash if you want more variety or need to use up what’s in your fridge. Just make sure the veggies are sliced evenly for even cooking.

What type of ground meat works best for this casserole?

Lean ground beef is classic, but ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based grounds work beautifully as well. Just note that different meats may cook more quickly or produce more/less fat, so adjust draining as needed.

Can I make Cheesy Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as written, Cheesy Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole contains no gluten. Just confirm your spices and canned goods are labeled gluten-free to avoid any hidden gluten.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

Increase the red pepper flakes, toss in chopped jalapeños, or use a spicy shredded cheese blend to give the casserole an extra kick. The base recipe is mellow, so there’s lots of room to turn up the heat!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a family-friendly dinner that feels both indulgent and nourishing, Cheesy Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole is a must-try. It’s so easy, so satisfying, and so full of flavor that it’s bound to be a new favorite at your table. Go ahead, give it a whirl, and let the bubbly cheese and hearty flavors win you over!