Cozy Zucchini Hamburger Casserole
A hearty casserole layered with tender zucchini slices, savory beef sauce, and gooey cheese—perfect for busy families who want a healthier twist on comfort food.
Ingredients
For the casserole
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 medium zucchinis sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the topping
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional add-ins
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- ½ cup chopped bell pepper
- ½ cup ricotta or cottage cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Slice zucchini into ¼-inch rounds, sprinkle with salt, let sit 10 minutes, then pat dry.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté onion 2–3 minutes, add garlic for 1 minute, then cook beef until browned and drain fat.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper; simmer 5–7 minutes.
- Layer sauce and zucchini slices in the dish, finishing with sauce, then top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden, or broil briefly for a crisp top. Cool 10 minutes before serving.