Name: Low-Carb Ground Beef Zucchini Bake
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American / Keto-Friendly
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds ground beef (85% lean) 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese) 1 small onion, finely chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced; 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Salt and pepper, to taste 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 large eggs; 0.5 cup marinara sauce (low-carb, no added sugar) Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Description

Looking for a comforting dinner that’s low in carbs but high in flavor? This Low-Carb Ground Beef Zucchini Bake is your answer. It’s a perfect blend of seasoned ground beef, layers of fresh zucchini, and gooey cheese—all baked into a golden, hearty casserole. Ideal for those following a keto lifestyle or simply looking for healthy dinner ideas, this bake fits into categories like quick dinner, low-carb meals, easy casseroles, and gluten-free food ideas. A satisfying dish that doesn’t weigh you down.

Ingredients

1.5 pounds ground beef (85% lean)

3 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 large eggs

0.5 cup marinara sauce (low-carb, no added sugar)

Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Slice zucchini and salt it to draw out moisture. Let sit for 15–20 minutes, then pat dry.

2. Heat olive oil in skillet, sauté onion until translucent, add garlic.

3. Add ground beef, cook until browned, then stir in marinara, herbs, and season. Simmer 5 minutes.

4. Mix ricotta, Parmesan, eggs, and seasoning in a bowl to create a creamy cheese layer.

5. Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Layer: half beef, zucchini, half ricotta, repeat.

6. Top with mozzarella and extra Parmesan.

7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes. Broil for 2–3 minutes if needed.

8. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley or basil.

Notes

Salting zucchini first prevents soggy results.

Let the dish rest before slicing so the layers set properly.

You can use ground turkey or chicken as a variation.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Low-Carb Dinner / Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American / Keto-Friendly

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 390
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 610mg
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 1.5g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 115mg