Hamburger And Zucchini
A hearty casserole combining tender zucchini, savory hamburger and bacon, with ham, pimento, and fresh herbs, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the zucchini squash in cold water.
- Put the zucchini in a pot with enough water to cover and bring to a boil.
- Do not cover the pan while boiling the zucchini to retain its green color.
- Drain the zucchini and set aside to cool.
- In a skillet, fry the diced ham and bacon until the bacon is golden.
- Add the chopped onion and fry until it is clear and glazed.
- Add the hamburger and fry until its red color disappears.
- Remove from heat and stir in salt, pepper, pimento, and parsley flakes.
- Cut the cooled zucchini in half and arrange in the bottom of a greased baking dish.
- Place the hamburger mixture over the zucchini.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider swapping the ground hamburger with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If zucchini is not available, summer squash can be a great substitute. When boiling zucchini, avoid overcooking to maintain its texture and color. You can also add garlic for an extra depth of flavor, similar to what you might find in Mushroom Sauteed Meatballs.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top can enhance the flavors. For a heartier side, consider serving it alongside Muckie'S Baked Beans. This dish is perfect for casual family dinners or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, ensuring the zucchini retains its texture. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger And Zucchini contains roughly 117 calories, with 5g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1455mg per serving (63% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the hamburger mixture and zucchini in advance. Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake as directed when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of ham?
If you prefer not to use ham, you could substitute it with turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a leaner dish. Alternatively, diced chicken or even cooked sausage can provide a nice flavor profile.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as instructed. This allows for quick meals on busy days.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).