Scrumptious and filling – this easy, meaty zucchini casserole is a great meal with shredded zucchini base or pizza crust topped with cheese, ground beef or hamburger, chicken, and a lot more. It’s a packed weeknight dinner, especially perfect for zucchini lovers!
INGREDIENTS
cooking spray
Zucchini Base:
2 large eggs
1 large zucchini or 2 c., shredded or grated Aim for approximately 2 c. A little less will not matter. Begin to grate another
zucchini if you are just under the 2-cup mark. Your base will still turn out amazing!
1 ½ c. cheese, shredded
⅔ c. Parmesan cheese, grated or shredded
1 tsp salt
Meaty Middle Layer:
¾ c. onion, chopped
1 ½ lb. ground beef, pork, sausage (no casings), chicken, turkey, soy-based crumble
½ c. peppers, green, orange, yellow, or red, chopped
2 c. mushrooms, fresh, sliced
1-2 tbsp Italian seasoning, if desired
1 jar (26 ounces) tomato, pasta, or spaghetti sauce, your favorite brand or flavor, Alfredo sauce works too!
Topping:
1 ½ c. cheese, shredded, more or less to taste
How to make Meaty Zucchini Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the oven. Preheat it to 400 degrees. Using cooking spray, lightly grease a 13 x 9-inch and set aside.
Zucchini Base:
Step 2: In a strainer, place the grated zucchini and sprinkle with salt. Toss and allow it to stand for about 15 minutes.
Step 3: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, place the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and half of the shredded cheeses. Mix well until combined.
Step 4: Using paper towels, squeeze out the moisture from the zucchini. Place the zucchini in the bowl with the eggs and cheeses. Mix again using your hands.
Step 5: Into the prepared pan, evenly press the mixture. Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, uncovered. Set aside when done.
Meaty Middle Layer:
Step 6: Saute the mushrooms and onions in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat until they begin to soften. Then, add the ground meat and cook while breaking it into small pieces until browned. Next, add the peppers and stir well until combined. If needed, drain. Toss in the tomato, pasta, and spaghetti sauce.
Step 7: On top of the zucchini layer, empty the contents of the bowl and spread evenly.
Topping:
Step 8: On top, sprinkle the cheese. Return to the oven and resume baking for another 20 minutes until completely heated.
Step 9: Remove from the oven when done and let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!