Cheesy Ground Beef & Zucchini Bake

Cheesy Ground Beef & Zucchini Bake

A hearty, low-carb casserole layered with seasoned ground beef, zucchini, tomatoes, eggs, and plenty of melted cheese.

Ingredients

For the beef mixture

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the egg mixture

• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For topping

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar
• 1–2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the zucchini: Slice the zucchini into thin rounds or half-moons. Sprinkle lightly with salt and let sit for about 10 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. Cook the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook for 2–3 minutes. Add garlic and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, until slightly thickened.
5. Make the egg mixture: Whisk together eggs, milk, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Assemble the casserole: Arrange half of the zucchini in the bottom of the baking dish. Add half of the beef mixture, then repeat with the remaining zucchini and beef.
7. Pour the egg mixture evenly over everything.
8. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar generously over the top.
9. Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes, until the center is set and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
10. Let the casserole rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve warm.

⭐ Tips

• For extra flavor, add mushrooms or bell peppers to the beef mixture.
• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
• For a firmer casserole, squeeze as much moisture as possible from the zucchini before layering.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.