When it comes to creating healthy meals, there are few ingredients more versatile than ground beef and zucchini. This dynamic duo can be combined in a multitude of ways to produce dishes that are not only delicious but also nutritious. In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful ground beef and zucchini recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From classic comfort foods like lasagna and shepherd’s pie, to international-inspired dishes like tacos and enchiladas, these recipes showcase the versatility of ground beef and zucchini. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick weeknight meals or a foodie seeking new inspiration in the kitchen, this collection has something for everyone.
So, let’s get started! In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these 20 recipes, exploring the ingredients, cooking methods, and tips for making them your own. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting to explore the world of cooking, these ground beef and zucchini recipes are sure to become new favorites in no time.
Zucchini and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of zucchini, ground beef, and bell peppers for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped zucchini, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the ground beef mixture, filling to the top.
6. Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Ground Beef and Zucchini Stir-Fry
A flavorful and spicy twist on a classic stir-fry, this recipe combines juicy ground beef with tender zucchini and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the zucchini slices and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Pour the mixture over the ground beef and vegetables; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole
A hearty, satisfying casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup pasta sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 lasagna noodles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add zucchini, pasta sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the zucchini is tender.
4. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ground beef mixture and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of cooked lasagna noodles, followed by the ground beef mixture, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Repeat for 2-3 layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Zucchini Lasagna Rolls
A creative twist on traditional lasagna, these rolls combine ground beef, zucchini, and cheese for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in grated zucchini and marinara sauce. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. To assemble the rolls: Place a cooked noodle on a flat surface; spread 1/4 cup of the meat mixture down the center of the noodle, leaving a 1-inch border on either side. Top with 1/4 cup of the cheese mixture. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Repeat until all ingredients are used, placing rolls in a single layer in the baking dish.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Boats Stuffed with Ground Beef
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe uses zucchinis as the “boats” for a savory ground beef filling. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch!
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/8 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir until combined.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture, placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of each boat.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Zucchini Meatballs
Elevate your pasta dishes or serve these flavorful meatballs as a snack with a side of marinara sauce. This recipe combines the richness of ground beef with the freshness of zucchini, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional meatballs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium zucchini, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped zucchini, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with marinara sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Zucchini and Ground Beef Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of tender zucchini, savory ground beef, and aromatic spices, making it a great comfort food for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Add the sliced zucchinis, chicken broth, and thyme to the pot.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchini is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Zucchini Tacos
This recipe combines the savory flavors of ground beef with the freshness of zucchini, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa, cilantro, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and zucchini to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the taco seasoning packet to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the beef and zucchini mixture onto a tortilla, topping with cheese (if desired) and any other desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet Dinner
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the sliced zucchinis to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they start to soften.
5. Stir in the chicken broth, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the zucchini is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Zucchini Shepherd’s Pie
A classic comfort food dish gets a fresh twist with the addition of zucchini, adding moisture and flavor to this hearty casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef, onion, garlic, and zucchini in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, flour, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes and sprinkle with cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Zucchini and Ground Beef Pasta Bake
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines the goodness of zucchini, ground beef, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add zucchini, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, meat and vegetable mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Zucchini Stuffed Shells
A twist on the classic stuffed shell recipe, this dish combines ground beef and zucchini with pasta shells for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium zucchinis, finely chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, and zucchini to the skillet and cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Combine cooked pasta shells, ground beef mixture, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and oregano in a large mixing bowl.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the meatball mixture and place in a baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until shells are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini and Ground Beef Hash
A hearty and flavorful hash recipe that combines the freshness of zucchini with the richness of ground beef, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium zucchinis, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add diced zucchini; cook for 5 minutes or until tender.
5. Stir in beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray or oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ground Beef and Zucchini Empanadas
A twist on traditional empanadas, these savory pastries combine ground beef, zucchini, and spices for a flavorful and satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package empanada wrappers (about 12-15)
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the grated zucchini, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. On a lightly floured surface, lay an empanada wrapper. Place about 1/4 cup of the beef and zucchini mixture in the center of the wrapper.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, pressing edges together to seal.
7. Brush tops with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini and Ground Beef Chili
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional chili, this recipe combines the richness of ground beef with the freshness of zucchini.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups zucchini, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water as needed
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the diced zucchini, chili powder, and cumin. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the zucchini is tender.
5. Add the canned tomatoes, red kidney beans, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ground Beef and Zucchini Moussaka
Ground Beef and Zucchini Moussaka Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of Greece with this hearty Ground Beef and Zucchini Moussaka, a twist on the classic eggplant-based dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned.
3. Add onion, garlic, and zucchini; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
6. In a separate bowl, combine cheese and parsley.
7. Assemble the moussaka by layering cooked ground beef mixture, lasagna noodles, and cheese mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Top with additional grated cheese and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Zucchini and Ground Beef Enchiladas
This recipe combines the flavors of zucchini, ground beef, and enchilada sauce for a delicious twist on traditional Mexican cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack)
– Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add zucchini, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over low heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spooning meat mixture onto a tortilla, then rolling up and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the top of the rolled enchiladas and sprinkle with cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot, garnished with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ground Beef and Zucchini Quesadillas
A twist on traditional quesadillas, this recipe combines the flavors of ground beef, zucchini, and cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1/2 cup onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil, ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced zucchini and cook until it’s tender.
4. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. In a large skillet or griddle, place a tortilla over medium heat.
6. Sprinkle half of the cooked beef mixture onto half of the tortilla, followed by half of the shredded cheese.
7. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
9. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
10. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zucchini and Ground Beef Frittata
A delicious breakfast or brunch option that combines the flavors of zucchini, ground beef, and eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini, diced
– 1 lb ground beef
– 6 large eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced zucchini to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Pour cooked zucchini and ground beef mixture into the egg mixture; stir to combine.
6. Pour the egg mixture into a greased 9-inch (23 cm) pie plate or skillet.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until eggs are set and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Zucchini Dumplings
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the comfort of ground beef with the freshness of zucchini, all wrapped up in a tender dumpling.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, zucchini, onion, garlic, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the beaten egg and mix until just combined.
4. Using your hands or a spoon, shape mixture into small dumplings, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
5. Place dumplings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with water.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until dumplings are cooked through and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 20 mouthwatering ground beef and zucchini recipes! From comforting casseroles to quick stir-fries, and from stuffed peppers to tacos, there’s something for everyone. These flavorful dishes are not only delicious but also healthy, making them perfect for a busy lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a tasty snack, these recipes will keep your taste buds satisfied and your belly full. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the flavors of ground beef and zucchini!
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