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Hey there, friends!
Looking for a hearty and delicious meal? I’ve got the perfect recipe for you!
Today, I’m sharing my baked zucchini with ground beef.
It’s packed with flavor, super satisfying, and a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Plus, it’s easy to whip up on a busy weeknight.
Let’s dive in and get cooking!
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground beef can be replaced with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner or vegetarian option. These alternatives maintain a similar texture and can be seasoned to mimic the flavor of beef. Adjust cooking time slightly, as turkey may cook faster than beef.
Heavy whipping cream can be substituted with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version. These plant-based alternatives provide a similar richness and creaminess. Use a 1:1 ratio, but consider reducing the amount slightly if the consistency is too thick.
Cheddar and mozzarella cheeses can be swapped with dairy-free cheese alternatives made from nuts or soy for those avoiding dairy. These substitutes melt similarly to traditional cheese. Alternatively, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor while boosting nutritional content. Adjust quantities to taste, as dairy-free cheeses may have different melting properties.
Preparation Time | 15-20 minutes |
Cooking Time | 20-25 minutes |
Total Time | 35-45 minutes |
Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 2200-2500
- Protein: 100-120 g
- Fat: 150-170 g
- Carbohydrates: 150-170 g
Ingredients
- 2 pounds zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch slices
- 1/4 cup plain flour
- Salt and black pepper, as needed
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon italian herbs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 pound minced beef
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 minced garlic cloves (about 1 teaspoon)
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil for topping (optional)
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
Take a 9 x 9 inch baking dish and spray it with cooking spray.
Set it aside for later use.
Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Zucchini
In a large bowl, combine fresh zucchini slices with flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
Toss until the zucchini is evenly coated.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned zucchini slices.
Cook the zucchini for about 5 minutes per side, or until they become tender.
Once cooked, remove the zucchini from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture
Using the same skillet, brown the ground beef along with chopped onion and minced garlic.
Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese until well blended.
This will be used to layer the casserole.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Begin assembling the casserole by spreading half of the cooked zucchini slices in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Top the zucchini with half of the ground beef mixture, and then pour half of the cheese sauce over it.
Repeat the layering process with the remaining zucchini, ground beef mixture, and cheese sauce.
Step 6: Top and Bake
Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the top of the casserole for a crispy topping.
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven.
If desired, garnish it with fresh parsley or basil for added flavor and presentation.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious zucchini casserole!