Ground Beef and Zucchini Bake

Name: Ground Beef and Zucchini Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 medium zucchinis, sliced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 1 teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Plates

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Zucchini Bake when I want a hearty yet healthy meal. It’s an easy dish packed with flavors that brings the richness of beef together with the freshness of zucchini. The combination of herbs and spices elevates the flavor profile, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder that makes cleanup a breeze, leaving me more time to enjoy dinner with family and friends.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:18:28.593Z

Trying out new vegetable combinations is something I love, and zucchini has truly been a game changer in this dish. Its mild flavor absorbs the spices beautifully and creates a fantastic texture when baked. I remember the first time I made this, I was pleasantly surprised at how much everyone enjoyed the zucchini, especially my kids!

Another tip I found useful is to add a sprinkle of cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking. It not only enhances the flavor but also creates a deliciously golden, bubbly topping that makes it even more appetizing. The next time you make this dish, don’t skip that step!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and comforting with a perfect balance of protein and vegetables
Simple to prepare and great for weeknight dinners
Flexible recipe: adjust flavors and ingredients as you desire

      

The Role of Zucchini

Zucchini not only adds a lovely freshness to the Ground Beef and Zucchini Bake, but it also serves as a natural way to add moisture to the dish. When cooked, zucchini releases water, which helps to create a tender texture that complements the robust ground beef. To avoid a soggy bottom, be sure to slice your zucchini evenly, about 1/4 inch thick, so that they cook uniformly and soak up the meaty flavors without losing their integrity.

In addition to enhancing the dish's moisture, zucchini is a versatile ingredient that can be easily swapped out. If you're looking for variation, consider using yellow squash or even eggplant for a different texture and flavor profile. This adaptability allows you to cater to different tastes while still keeping the dish balanced and nutritious.

Cheese Choices and Variations

Adding cheese on top of the bake is entirely optional, but it can elevate the flavor and create a satisfying golden crust. Opt for a blend of cheeses, like mozzarella for meltiness and sharp cheddar for a tangy bite. If you're watching your calories, consider using a low-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative to maintain richness while keeping the dish light.

For those who enjoy a little heat, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the dish before baking, or stir in some diced jalapeños with the vegetables. These spicy additions can enhance the flavor and add an exciting kick, making the dish even more enjoyable for spice lovers.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Ground Beef and Zucchini Bake is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator covered, allowing the flavors to meld together overnight. When you're ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the bake time to ensure it heats through evenly.

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can easily reheat it in the microwave or the oven; just cover with foil and warm at a lower temperature to avoid drying out. This versatility makes it an enjoyable meal throughout the week, adding convenience to your busy evenings.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for a fulfilling cooking experience!

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
2 medium zucchinis, sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious bake!

Cook the Meat

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat and add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Add the Vegetables

Stir in the zucchini slices and cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Then, add the diced tomatoes along with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, or until bubbly.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving for the best flavor!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce into the beef. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.

Serving Suggestions

To round out your meal, consider serving the Ground Beef and Zucchini Bake with a simple side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad will complement the hearty bake, creating a balanced meal that's satisfying without feeling heavy. You could also pair it with crusty bread for a delightful dip into the savory juices.

For a family-friendly option, serve the bake in individual portions, allowing each person to customize their toppings. Offering sides like avocado slices or sour cream can turn this dish into a taco-style bake, making it fun and interactive for everyone at the table.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're looking to feed a larger crowd, this recipe can easily be doubled. Just be sure to use a larger skillet to brown the beef in batches, ensuring everything cooks evenly. You may need to increase the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it and look for that bubbling, golden top to signal that it’s done.

For smaller servings, this dish can be halved as well. It’s also a great candidate for freezing; portion out the leftovers in freezer-safe containers. When you need a quick meal, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the oven until thoroughly heated.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Yes! You can mix in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach based on your preferences.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze the baked dish for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

→ Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish a day in advance. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.