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Ground Beef Zucchini Bake (Low Carb)

A hearty, cheesy, and naturally low-carb casserole made with savory ground beef, tender zucchini, herbs, and melty cheese. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that satisfies like comfort food—without the carbs.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (85/15 or leaner)
  • 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup marinara or low-carb tomato sauce
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9 or 8×8 baking dish.
  2. Cook the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onions until soft (about 3–4 minutes). Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Add ground beef, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned. Stir in marinara and simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. Prep the zucchini: Thinly slice zucchini into rounds and pat dry with paper towels to reduce moisture.
  4. Assemble the bake: Spread a spoonful of beef mixture in the bottom of the dish. Layer zucchini slices on top. Add more beef and sprinkle mozzarella. Repeat layers, finishing with cheese and parmesan on top.
  5. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbling and golden on top. Optional: broil for 2–3 minutes for crispier cheese.
  6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to help it set and reduce moisture.

Notes

  • Salt or blot zucchini before baking to reduce excess water.
  • Use a thick, no-sugar-added marinara for best texture.
  • Layer cheese throughout for gooeyness in every bite.
  • Broil at the end for a beautifully golden crust.
  • Portion leftovers for meal prep—reheat well!
  • Author: Your Name Here
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 410
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: zucchini bake, ground beef casserole, keto dinner, low carb comfort food, gluten free meal