Hey there, let’s talk about this ground beef zucchini casserole. Ya know, the kind that fills your belly and doesn’t empty your wallet. I ain’t no fancy cook, but I can whip up somethin’ tasty, and this here casserole is one of ’em.
First off, you gotta get yourself some ground beef. Don’t go buyin’ that fancy, lean stuff. Get the regular, the one with a bit of fat. Fat’s flavor, ya know? Brown that beef up in a big ol’ pan. I like to use my cast iron, it just makes things taste better.
Now, for the zucchini. Here’s a secret: salt them zucchinis and let ’em sit for a bit. About 15 minutes, I reckon. Why? ‘Cause they got a lot of water in ’em, and you don’t want a watery casserole. Use that kosher salt, the big chunky kind. It’s easier to wipe off, see? You don’t want your casserole too salty, just right.
- Get ground beef, not too lean.
- Brown it up good in a pan.
- Salt them zucchinis and let ’em sit.
- Use kosher salt, it’s better.
Once the beef is browned, I like to drain off some of the grease, but not all of it. Like I said, fat’s flavor. Then, you toss in some onions and garlic. Chop ’em up small, or however you like. I ain’t picky, and you shouldn’t be either. Cook ’em till they’re soft and smellin’ good. That’s how you know they’re ready.
Next comes the zucchini. Squeeze out all that water, see? You’ll be surprised how much comes out. Then, dump them zucchinis in with the beef and onions. Stir it all up good. I like to add some corn too. The canned kind is fine. Just drain it first.
Now, for the sauce. Some folks like to use tomato sauce, but I prefer a creamy sauce. It’s just richer, ya know? Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole needs somethin’ to hold it all together. I use a can of cream of mushroom soup. Yeah, I know, it ain’t fancy, but it works. You can add some milk or sour cream if you want it extra creamy. And don’t forget the herbs. I like to use some dried thyme and oregano. Fresh is good too, if you got it. But don’t go frettin’ if you ain’t got none.
Mix everything together real good. Make sure the zucchini and beef are all coated in that creamy sauce. Then, pour it all into a casserole dish. I use a 9×13, but any size will do. Just depends how much you’re makin’. Bake it in the oven at 350 degrees for about 20-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown.
And that’s it. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy. A good, hearty meal that won’t break the bank. This ground beef zucchini casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner, or you can take it to a potluck. Folks always love it.
Let me tell you, this ain’t just some recipe I found in a book. It’s somethin’ I learned from my mama, and she learned it from her mama. It’s good, honest food. The kind that fills you up and makes you feel good inside. And it’s cheap too, which is important these days, ain’t it? Groceries cost an arm and a leg now. This Ground beef zucchini casserole stretches a dollar, that’s for sure. It feeds a whole bunch of people, and it’s healthy too, what with all them zucchinis. It’s a good way to get your vegetables in. Even the kids will eat it, and that’s sayin’ somethin’.
Now, a few more things. Don’t be afraid to experiment. You can add other vegetables, like mushrooms or peppers. You can use different kinds of meat, like sausage or ground turkey. You can even add cheese, if you like. I sometimes throw in some cheddar cheese, just for fun. It’s your casserole, you can do whatever you want with it. That’s the beauty of cooking, see? It ain’t an exact science. It’s about feelin’ your way around the kitchen and making things that taste good. And don’t worry if it ain’t perfect. Nobody’s perfect. Just cook from your heart and it’ll be alright.
And that’s all there is to it. A simple, delicious, and affordable meal that the whole family will love. This ground beef zucchini casserole is a keeper, I tell you. It’s one of those recipes you’ll make again and again. So go on, give it a try. You won’t be disappointed. And if you do make it, let me know how it turns out. I always love hearin’ from folks. Now, get yourself in that kitchen and start cookin’! Supper ain’t gonna make itself, you know.
Remember, cooking should be fun. Don’t stress about it. Just relax and enjoy the process. And don’t forget to taste as you go. That’s important. You gotta make sure it tastes good before you serve it to folks. And that’s all I gotta say about this here ground beef zucchini casserole. It’s a winner, trust me.
Now go on, git! And happy cooking!
