I lose weight eating this Ground Beef Zucchini Bake

Ingredients

• 2 medium Zucchini (cut into 1/4-inch coins)
• 1 lb Ground Beef (80% lean, cooked and drained)
• 1 medium Onion (diced)
• 8 oz Mushrooms (sliced; button or cremini work well)
• 1 cup Marinara Sauce (store‑bought or homemade)
• 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese (shredded; part for layering, part for topping)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated, optional for topping)
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil

Instructions

1. Slice Zucchini and Prepare Vegetables

   Wash the zucchini, trim the ends, and slice into 1/4‑inch thick coins. Dice the onion and slice the mushrooms.

   Time: PT5M

2. Brown Ground Beef

   Heat a large skillet over medium‑high heat, add olive oil, then add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up, until fully browned, about 6‑8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

   Time: PT8M

   Temperature: medium-high

3. Sauté Onion and Mushrooms

   In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sliced mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: medium

4. Mix Meat with Marinara

   Return the browned beef to the skillet (if removed), pour in the marinara sauce, sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and heat through for 2‑3 minutes.

   Time: PT3M

   Temperature: medium

5. Layer Ingredients in Baking Dish

   Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13‑inch baking dish. Spread a layer of zucchini coins, then top with half of the meat sauce, sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella, and repeat layers, ending with a final layer of zucchini and the remaining mozzarella. Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top if using.

   Time: PT10M

   Temperature: 375°F

6. Bake the Zucchini Beef Casserole

   Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, lightly golden, and the zucchini is tender.

   Time: PT30M

   Temperature: 375°F

7. Rest and Serve

   Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

   Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

390

Protein

35g

Carbohydrates

24g

Fat

38g

Fiber

4g