Ground Beef Zucchini and Rice Casserole

There's nothing quite like a warm, filling meal that comes together in less than an hour. This ground beef zucchini casserole is my go-to for those busy evenings when time is short and the temperatures are dropping, but I still want to serve something hearty and comforting.

It’s a dish where seasoned ground beef is combined with fresh zucchini and fluffy rice, baked together under a creamy cheese topping and finished with Italian seasonings and diced tomatoes. It’s pure comfort in a casserole dish and a true crowd-pleaser for the whole family. My kids don't even whine about the zucchini!

The flavors in this casserole are a satisfying combination. The savory ground beef lays down a rich, hearty foundation, while the zucchini adds a touch of sweetness and keeps the dish moist. The cream cheese provides a silky texture, and the golden mozzarella topping pulls it all together with its gooey, cheesy goodness. A sprinkle of Italian seasoning ties everything together beautifully, making every bite a burst of flavor.

I love making this dish on nights when I'm super busy, have a family dinner, or have guests coming over. It’s one of those meals that feels special but doesn’t take hours in the kitchen—truly a lifesaver on busy days.

And let me tell you, this recipe has a knack for disappearing quickly at dinners. It’s always the first dish to be scraped clean, which makes me smile every time. Knowing I’ve served something everyone loves is such a joy.

In my home, this is a favorite. The kids eat it enthusiastically, zucchini and all—which is a miracle since they’re usually not big fans of this veggie. It’s also great for those nights when you haven’t planned ahead because it's a good way to use ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen.

I’ll often make this recipe, prepping it the night before and then popping into the oven right before dinner, knowing it’ll bring everyone to the table with happy faces and full appetites. And if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, it’s just as delicious the next day—though in my house, that rarely happens!

• Ground beef - provides a hearty base.
• Olive oil - used for sautéing and adds richness.
• Onion - minced, this contributes sweetness and flavor.
• Garlic - minced, adds a distinct garlic taste.
• Zucchini - chopped, adds moisture and a fresh texture.
• Cooked rice - serves as a filling component and absorbs flavors, you may use healthier alternatives.
• Italian seasoning - brings a blend of herbs for added flavor.
• Canned diced tomatoes - adds acidity and moisture.
• Cream cheese - provides creaminess and richness, you can also use ricotta.
• Mozzarella - shredded, adds a gooey, cheesy topping.
• Parsley - chopped, adds a fresh, herbaceous note for garnish.

See the recipe card for exact quantities.

This ground beef zucchini casserole is a straightforward recipe that combines fresh zucchini, seasoned ground beef, and rice into a delicious and filling meal. Perfect for an easy dinner, this is a great dish to make as it's not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a comforting beef zucchini casserole, I'm sure you'll love this recipe. Each step is designed to guide you through the process, ensuring that you achieve great results with minimal effort. Let’s get started!

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 395°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent the casserole from sticking.

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and season with sea salt and black pepper. Add and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and sear it for about 3 minutes, or until it is browned. Remove the beef and set it aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the minced onion, minced garlic, and chopped zucchini. Sauté the mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly softened.

Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Add the cooked rice, Italian seasoning, and tomatoes. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it is simmering, add the cream cheese and mix until everything is well combined and creamy.

Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. This will create a delicious cheesy layer once baked.

Bake the Casserole

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to ensure the cheese doesn't burn.

Let It Rest

After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to serve.

Garnish and Serve

Before serving, garnish the casserole with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. This beef zucchini and rice casserole is now ready to enjoy! It’s a great weeknight dinner option that the whole family will love.