Italian Zucchini and Beef Bake
Looking for a delicious way to enjoy your veggies while keeping your meal low-carb? This Italian Zucchini and Beef Bake is a fantastic option that combines seasoned ground beef with layers of fresh zucchini, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted mozzarella. It’s a comforting dish that offers the rich flavors of lasagna without the extra carbs.
This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, as it can be prepared in advance and baked when you’re ready to eat. With its savory ground beef, tangy marinara sauce, and the satisfying textures of zucchini and cheese, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds.
A Low-Carb Delight
This Italian Zucchini and Beef Bake presents a satisfying blend of rich flavors and comforting textures.
The dish utilizes tender zucchini slices to replace traditional pasta, bringing a fresh element to each bite.
With seasoned ground beef and robust marinara sauce, it’s a meal that delights the palate while maintaining a low-carb profile.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing this dish is straightforward, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Start by browning ground beef in a skillet, allowing the savory flavors to develop.
- Integrating marinara sauce with Italian seasoning enhances the overall taste, creating a savory base for the layers to come.
- Once the beef is ready, layering becomes the next step. Begin with zucchini slices to form a foundation, followed by ricotta cheese for creaminess.
This method continues, creating a hearty assembly that promises satisfaction.
Nutritional Benefits
This casserole not only pleases the taste buds but also offers nutritional benefits.
With only 320 calories per serving and a low carbohydrate count, it’s a smart choice for those watching their intake.
Packed with protein from the ground beef and ricotta, it provides a well-rounded meal for any occasion.
A Low-Carb Delight
This Italian Zucchini and Beef Bake is a hearty, satisfying dish that offers a delightful balance of flavors. The tender zucchini slices replace traditional pasta, while the seasoned ground beef and rich marinara sauce ensure every bite is packed with taste. It’s a perfect option for those looking to enjoy a comforting meal without the carbs.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into rounds
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the zucchini slices at the bottom. Spread half of the ricotta cheese over the zucchini.
- Add half of the beef mixture on top. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining zucchini, ricotta, beef mixture, and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Drizzle olive oil over the top and cover the dish with foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
Perfect for Serving
After baking, allow the casserole to cool slightly. This waiting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve.
Each slice reveals vibrant colors, showcasing the harmonious blend of ground beef, marinara, zucchini, and cheese.
