Zucchini And Ground Beef Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender zucchini and savory ground beef, layered with flavorful tomatoes and seasoned with Worcestershire sauce and Parmesan cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners, offering a blend of savory, tangy, and cheesy flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped celery in a skillet.
- Remove from pan and drain off excess fat.
- Rinse the beef and celery in water and drain.
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of oleo and brown the sliced zucchini.
- In a 1 1/2-quart casserole, layer the ground beef and zucchini alternately.
- Sprinkle each layer with salt and pepper, being careful with the salt.
- In a small dish, combine the cut-up tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar; stir well.
- Pour the tomato mixture over the layered casserole.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier version, substitute ground turkey for ground beef or add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture. Ensure to drain the zucchini well after cooking to prevent excess moisture in the casserole, similar to techniques used in Daddy'S Chili.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside mashed potatoes or rice. You can also top it with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor, enhancing the dish's appeal similar to other comforting beef recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, heating in short intervals to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini And Ground Beef Casserole contains roughly 180 calories, with 6g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (179% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2017mg per serving (88% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble the layers, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through properly.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use grated mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Nutritional yeast is also a great dairy-free alternative that adds a cheesy flavor without the calories.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking to ensure even heating.
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).