Description
A comforting casserole featuring layers of lean ground beef, zucchini, and melted mozzarella cheese, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 2 lbs), sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook for about 2 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, crumbling it with a spoon, and cook for approximately 5 minutes until browned.
- Stir in drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Layer half of the beef mixture in an 8×8-inch baking dish, top with half the zucchini rounds and half the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layering process.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese melts and begins to brown.
- Allow the casserole to sit for 10 minutes before slicing to let layers set.
Notes
For best results, make sure to salt and dry zucchini to prevent excess moisture. This dish can be assembled a day ahead for convenience.