Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Zucchini Hamburger Casserole – a wholesome and savory dish that brings together the richness of grass-fed ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and a blend of cheeses. This casserole not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a nutritious twist to a classic favorite.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Grass-fed 90% lean ground beef
- 4 cups zucchini, grated and drained
- 2 large free-range eggs
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, grated and divided
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated and divided
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon Himalayan pink salt
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside. Slice the zucchini, sprinkle with Himalayan pink salt, and let it stand for 10 minutes. Squeeze out excess moisture.
- Mix and Bake Base: In a medium bowl, combine eggs, grated zucchini, and half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly and press the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes until the base sets.
- Cook Ground Beef: Meanwhile, in a saucepan over high heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onions until browned. Remove from heat, strain any liquid, and spoon tomato sauce over the baked zucchini base.
- Layer and Bake Again: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese, add Parmesan, and scatter chopped green bell pepper over the top. Bake for an additional 20 minutes until the casserole is heated through, and the cheese turns golden and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Delight in this wholesome Zucchini Hamburger Casserole, a perfect family-friendly meal.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Vitamin D: 15mcg
- Calcium: 420mg
- Iron: 4mg
- Potassium: 600mg
Nutritional values are estimations and can vary depending on the brands of ingredients used and the sizes of portions.
Cooking Tips:
- To reduce moisture in zucchini, sprinkle with salt and let it stand for 10 minutes before squeezing out the excess liquid.
- Experiment with different cheese blends for a unique flavor profile.
- Serve with a side of mixed greens or whole-grain bread for a well-balanced meal.