Name: 4 servings 1x Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound; 2 medium; 1 cup; 1 cup; 1 teaspoon; 1/2 teaspoon; 1; 1/4 teaspoon; 1/4 teaspoon

Jump to Recipe· 4.8 from 23 reviews

If you’re longing for a hearty, comforting dish that’s guaranteed to win over everyone at the table, this Zucchini Hamburger Casserole is absolutely your answer. It brings together juicy ground beef, garden-fresh zucchini, and a melty blanket of cheese for a meal that’s as nourishing as it is irresistible. Better yet, this recipe is designed for 4 servings 1x, making it just right for a family dinner or a small gathering with friends. Every forkful is a cozy blend of flavors, and you won’t believe how easy it is to whip up!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This casserole shines with just a handful of everyday ingredients, each one playing its own important role. From the richness of the beef to the gentle crunch of zucchini, every component adds something special to the taste, texture, or color that makes this dish pop.

Ground beef (1 pound): Provides that hearty, savory base and makes this meal delightfully filling for 4 servings 1x.
Zucchini (2 medium, sliced): Lends juicy freshness and pairs perfectly with beef for a lighter, veggie-packed twist.
Diced tomatoes (1 cup): Adds bright flavor and a touch of acidity to balance out richness.
Shredded cheese (1 cup): Melts over everything, bringing gooey flavor and an irresistible golden top.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Layers in aromatic herbs that give the casserole its signature blend of flavors.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers subtle garlicky warmth without overpowering the other ingredients.
Onion (1, chopped): Enhances depth and sweetness, blending beautifully as it cooks with the beef.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Brings out every flavor, ensuring the casserole is perfectly seasoned.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick and rounds out the taste.

How to Make 4 servings 1x

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This essential step ensures your baking dish will go straight into a hot oven later, promoting even cooking and getting that bubbly, golden cheese topping we all crave. It really sets the stage for the perfect 4 servings 1x experience.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion

Place a large skillet on medium heat and add your ground beef along with the chopped onion. Stir and cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions have softened. This step creates a rich flavor base and gives the casserole its heartiness. Remember to drain excess fat for a lighter dish!

Step 3: Add Zucchini and Tomatoes

Now’s the time to stir in your sliced zucchini and diced tomatoes. As these cook together with the beef, the zucchini softens slightly and absorbs all those tasty juices, making every bite of this 4 servings 1x casserole lush and full of flavor.

Step 4: Season Everything

Sprinkle in your Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to make sure everything is evenly coated. This is where the simple seasoning works its magic, bringing all the flavors together in harmony.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the skillet mixture into a baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then lavishly sprinkle your shredded cheese over the top. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden. The finishing touch makes your 4 servings 1x casserole totally irresistible.

How to Serve 4 servings 1x

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh herbs like chopped parsley, basil, or oregano over your baked casserole right before serving. It adds a lively color burst and a fragrant note that elevates the whole dish. If you want extra decadence, offer a drizzle of olive oil or a little more cheese right on top for your 4 servings 1x.

Side Dishes

This casserole is wonderfully satisfying, but rounding out your 4 servings 1x meal with something fresh is always a good idea. Try pairing with a tossed green salad, steamed broccoli, or classic garlic bread. A side of fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes will also soak up all those flavorful juices!

Creative Ways to Present

You can bake and serve this casserole in individual ramekins for a personal touch, or spoon portions into hollowed-out zucchini boats for fun presentation. For buffet-style gatherings, set up a self-serve bar with toppings like crushed red pepper, crispy onions, or extra herbs to let everyone customize their 4 servings 1x plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover casserole to an airtight container. It will keep happily in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you prep a full 4 servings 1x, leftovers mean a quick lunch or dinner tomorrow that’s every bit as delicious.

Freezing

This casserole freezes like a dream! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture. Freezing is a fantastic way to make the 4 servings 1x recipe ahead for busy weeks.

Reheating

For best results, reheat individual servings in the microwave, or warm larger portions in the oven at 325°F until hot throughout. If you notice the cheese drying out, add a splash of broth or water before reheating to restore that just-baked moisture that makes every bite delicious.

FAQs

Can I substitute ground chicken or turkey for beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey makes a lighter but equally tasty version of this casserole. Just be sure to season well and watch the cooking time, as leaner meats may cook a little faster and need an extra splash of olive oil for juiciness.

How do I keep zucchini from getting soggy in the casserole?

To keep zucchini from becoming too soft, slice it a bit thicker or salt it lightly and let it rest for 10 minutes before adding to the skillet. This helps draw out some moisture, resulting in a firmer bite in your finished 4 servings 1x casserole.

What other veggies can I add?

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Try adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or even chopped spinach for extra color and nutrients. Just be sure not to overload the casserole, so everything cooks evenly for your 4 servings 1x batch.

Can I prepare the casserole ahead and bake later?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake as directed when you’re ready to serve. This makes 4 servings 1x even more convenient for busy schedules or entertaining.

What’s the best cheese for this casserole?

Cheddar is classic and gives a sharp, melty crust, but feel free to try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for extra depth of flavor and gooeyness in your 4 servings 1x meal.

Final Thoughts

This Zucchini Hamburger Casserole is the kind of recipe you’ll want to return to again and again, whether you’re feeding a family on a weeknight or gathering friends for a cozy meal. It’s uncomplicated, deeply satisfying, and full of flavor. Give the 4 servings 1x a try soon — I have a feeling it will become a favorite at your table too!