Description
This Zucchini and Ground Beef Casserole combines tender zucchini, savory beef, orzo pasta, and three types of cheese for a hearty, comforting one-dish meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners!
Ingredients
½ cup uncooked orzo pasta (about 3 oz)
2 teaspoons vegetable oil, divided
1 lb zucchini, cut in half lengthwise and sliced into thin ⅛-inch pieces
½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt, divided
1 lb ground beef (at least 90% lean)
½ cup chopped onion
2 teaspoons finely chopped garlic
1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted crushed tomatoes, undrained
1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese (divided)
½ cup part-skim ricotta cheese
¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Cook the orzo following the package directions. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté the zucchini: In a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of oil over medium heat. Add the zucchini and cook for 4–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until just tender but still slightly crisp. Transfer to a large mixing bowl and combine with the cooked orzo.
- Brown the beef: Using the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 teaspoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, onion, garlic, and remaining ¼ teaspoon salt. Cook for 7–8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the beef is fully cooked through.
- Combine and assemble: Add the beef mixture, crushed tomatoes, ¾ cup mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, and basil to the bowl with zucchini and orzo. Mix until well combined, then spoon into a prepared 8-inch square (2-quart) baking dish.
- Bake the casserole: Bake at 350°F for 35–40 minutes, until bubbly and heated through.
- Top and serve: Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup mozzarella over the hot casserole and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a lighter version, swap ground beef for turkey or chicken.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Use quinoa or rice for a gluten-free option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 24g