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Beef Zucchini

A hearty and flavorful beef zucchini casserole baked with cheese and herbs.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 0.5 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
  • 1 pound zucchini cut into ¼-inch slices
  • 0.5 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt divided
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 small yellow onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 14.5 oz crushed tomatoes 1 can
  • 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese shredded, divided
  • 0.5 cup ricotta cheese part skim
  • 0.25 cup parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • fresh basil chopped, for garnish

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
  2. Cook the orzo according to the package instructions. Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add zucchini slices to the skillet, season with Italian seasoning, ¼ teaspoon salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until crisp-tender.
  4. Remove zucchini and transfer to a large bowl. Add cooked orzo and mix.
  5. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil, sauté diced onion for 1 minute, then add minced garlic and cook for 20 seconds.
  6. Add ground beef to the skillet, season with remaining salt, and cook until browned, about 6-7 minutes.
  7. Drain excess fat, then add beef to the bowl with orzo and zucchini.
  8. Stir in crushed tomatoes, ½ cup mozzarella, ricotta, parmesan, basil, and thyme. Mix well.
  9. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and cheese melts.
  11. Remove from oven, let stand for 10-15 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and serve.

Notes

This hearty casserole is perfect for family dinners, bringing together flavorful ingredients in a comforting bake.