Description
Enjoy this easy zucchini ground beef quinoa casserole—healthy, flavorful, and perfect for a quick and hearty weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups beef broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Prepare the beef mixture: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté vegetables: Add onion, garlic, zucchini, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to the beef. Cook for 5–7 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Combine and assemble: In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, beef mixture, and diced tomatoes. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Add cheese and bake: Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Cheese Variety: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Make it Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils.
- Add More Veggies: Include bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrients.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days; reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Gluten-Free Assurance: Ensure that the broth and seasonings used are certified gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 15minutes
- Cook Time: 40minutes