Cheesy Zucchini & Ground Beef Casserole

Cheesy Zucchini & Ground Beef Casserole

Ingredients

For the meat layer

• 1.5 lbs (680 g) ground beef (or turkey/pork mix)

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)

For the zucchini layer

• 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin half-moons

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

For the cheesy topping

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella

• ½ cup shredded cheddar (optional for color)

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup heavy cream OR whole milk

• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan

• Fresh parsley for garnish

 Instructions

1. Prepare the meat base

• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add ground beef, breaking it apart.

• When halfway cooked, add onion and garlic.

• Season with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and chili flakes.

• Cook until browned and most moisture evaporates.

• Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly on the bottom of a greased 9–10 inch round or rectangular baking dish.

2. Prepare the zucchini

• In a bowl, toss zucchini slices with olive oil, salt, and Italian seasoning.

• Layer zucchini evenly over the beef.

3. Make the creamy cheese mixture

• Whisk eggs, heavy cream, Parmesan, and a pinch of salt.

• Pour mixture evenly over the zucchini.

• Top with mozzarella (and cheddar if using).

• Add small spoonfuls of extra cooked beef on top if you want the decorative browned clusters like in the photo.

4. Bake

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbling.

• Rest 10 minutes before slicing.

 Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a simple green salad.

• Great with roasted tomatoes, garlic bread, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.