If you’re craving a comforting family dinner that’s both hearty and packed with veggies, look no further than Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole. This dish is a luscious layer of savory ground beef, tender zucchini, tangy tomatoes, and a generous crown of gooey cheese—all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or a crowd of casserole lovers, this recipe delivers all your favorite flavors in every single bite.

Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

I absolutely love how this Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole keeps things simple, with each ingredient bringing its own magic. From the juicy beef to the ribbons of zucchini and bubbly cheese topping, every component shines to create a dish that tastes like home.

Ground beef: The hearty base provides savory richness—choose lean for less grease, or indulge with a bit more fat for lots of flavor.
Zucchinis: Sliced zucchini melts into the casserole, adding tenderness and freshness with every forkful.
Onion: Sautéed onions create a sweet, aromatic backdrop that enhances all the other ingredients.
Garlic: Just a couple minced cloves elevate the whole dish with their unmistakable aroma and depth.
Diced tomatoes: Drained before adding, they lend juicy acidity and a pop of color.
Cheddar cheese: For sharp, tangy flavor—don’t skimp for best results!
Mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly, creating those irresistible cheesy strings in every scoop.
Italian seasoning: A little goes a long way, infusing every layer with herby, aromatic goodness.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together—taste and adjust as you go.
Olive oil: A quick sauté in olive oil makes the beef and veggies extra luscious.
Breadcrumbs (optional): For those who like a crispy topping, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs adds golden crunch.

How to Make Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by setting your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C). This gives you the perfect heat for melting cheese and gently cooking the veggies without over-drying.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until they become fragrant and the onion looks translucent. This base gives depth and flavor to your Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with your spatula. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until it’s fully browned. If your beef is on the fattier side, drain off any excess fat so your casserole won’t get greasy.

Step 4: Add Veggies and Seasonings

Stir in the sliced zucchini, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let everything mingle for about 5 minutes. The goal here is to soften the zucchini just a little, so it bakes up tender but not mushy later on.

Step 5: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Spoon the beef and zucchini mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread everything out in an even layer—this helps the gooey cheese melt across every bite of your Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole!

Step 6: Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs

Scatter the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese all over the top. If you love a little crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs over it before baking.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The cheese should be bubbly and golden brown, and the whole kitchen will smell absolutely irresistible.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for just a few minutes before serving. This short rest helps it set up, so you get those perfect cheesy spoonfuls every time.

How to Serve Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole

Garnishes

To make your Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole irresistibly inviting, scatter a handful of chopped fresh herbs—like parsley or basil—across the bubbling cheese just before serving. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a little dollop of sour cream can also give it a beautiful finishing touch.

Side Dishes

Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad tossed simply with olive oil and lemon, or scoop it up alongside warm, crusty bread to soak up all that extra sauce. Roasted veggies or steamed green beans also round out the meal effortlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole in individual ramekins for a dinner party, or spoon it over fluffy rice or pasta for a new take. Leftovers are fantastic tucked into wraps, making a savory next-day lunch you’ll actually look forward to!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container, and the flavors will deepen overnight, making even better leftovers.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this casserole! Just let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or transfer to a lidded container. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before you’re ready to reheat.

Reheating

To reheat, simply cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F until hot and bubbly, usually about 20 minutes. Or, pop single portions in the microwave for a quick, cheesy meal on demand.

FAQs

Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work wonderfully in place of beef in Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole. Just note that lean meats might need a little extra seasoning for the same depth of flavor.

Do I have to use both cheddar and mozzarella cheese?

No problem—a single cheese will still be delicious! Cheddar gives tang, mozzarella melts beautifully, but you can use just one if you prefer or swap in your own favorites like Monterey Jack or fontina.

Can I make Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover it unbaked in the fridge, and then just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to cook. This makes it a perfect dish for meal prep or busy weeknights.

How do I avoid a watery casserole?

The secret is to drain your diced tomatoes really well and avoid overcooking the zucchini before baking. Both steps help prevent excess moisture, so your Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole stays rich and satisfying.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

The main recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you leave off the optional breadcrumbs or use a gluten-free variety. Always double-check your seasonings and cheese labels if sensitive.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to dig into your first bite of Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Casserole! It’s the kind of recipe that never lets you down, brimming with flavor and easy enough for any home cook. Don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes a family favorite at your table too.