California Zucchini Bake

Servings: 6 Difficulty: Intermediate
A hearty, cheesy casserole combining lean beef and fresh vegetables for a comforting family dinner.
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This California Zucchini Bake is a comforting, home-style casserole that balances lean ground beef with the freshness of summer vegetables. Layers of tender zucchini and juicy tomatoes are nestled with a savory mixture of seasoned beef, rice, and a creamy blend of sour cream and cheese. The dish offers a satisfying texture with crisp-tender veggies and a rich, melty topping. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, providing a wholesome meal that feels indulgent without being overly heavy. Simple to assemble and baked until bubbly, itâÂÂs a crowd-pleasing favorite that brings warmth to any table.

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California Zucchini Bake

Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 6 Calories: 296.5

Description

This California Zucchini Bake is a comforting, home-style casserole that balances lean ground beef with the freshness of summer vegetables. Layers of tender zucchini and juicy tomatoes are nestled with a savory mixture of seasoned beef, rice, and a creamy blend of sour cream and cheese. The dish offers a satisfying texture with crisp-tender veggies and a rich, melty topping. It&# 226;€™s perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, providing a wholesome meal that feels indulgent without being overly heavy. Simple to assemble and baked until bubbly, it’s a crowd-pleasing favorite that brings warmth to any table.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350ðF (175ðC). Lightly grease a 2-quart shallow casserole dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the ground beef, sliced zucchini, green onions, garlic powder, and chili powder. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the vegetables are tender-crisp, stirring frequently.
  3. Drain any excess fat from the skillet if necessary. Stir in the diced green chilies, cooked rice, sour cream, and 1 cup of the shredded cheese until well combined.
  4. Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
  5. Arrange the sliced tomatoes in a single layer on top of the mixture. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the tomatoes.
  7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6


Amount Per Serving
Calories 296.5kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 17.2g27%
Saturated Fat 6.9g35%
Cholesterol 88.5mg30%
Sodium 87.7mg4%
Total Carbohydrate 2.3g1%
Dietary Fiber 0.8g4%
Sugars 1.6g
Protein 30.4g61%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: american, bake, baking, beef, california, casserole, cheese, comfort food, dinner, ground beef, healthy, lean, meal prep, rice, sour cream, vegetarian option, weeknight, zucchini
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