Ingredients:

• 2 zucchinis (sliced thin)
• 8 eggs
• Salt, pepper, and nutmeg (to taste)
• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 onion (diced)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tbsp rosemary (fresh or dried)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp ketchup

Steps to Make the Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Bake:

1. Prepare the Zucchini:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, slice the zucchinis into thin rounds. This will help them cook evenly and ensure they soften and release their moisture during baking.

2. Cook the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant—this should take about 3-4 minutes. Once the onion is translucent, add the ground beef to the pan and break it up with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and rosemary, and cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

Once the beef is cooked, add the tomato paste and ketchup. Stir to combine, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the beef. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well-mixed and aromatic.

3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until fully combined. This mixture will help bind all the ingredients together and create a delicious, custard-like texture.

4. Layer the Ingredients:

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, start by layering the zucchini slices at the bottom. Arrange them in a single, even layer to form the base of the bake. Then, spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the zucchini.

Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring that it seeps down into the layers. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. The cheese will melt beautifully and form a golden, bubbly crust as it bakes.

5. Bake:

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set, the cheese is melted, and the top is golden brown. You can test for doneness by inserting a knife into the center—it should come out clean when the dish is fully cooked.

6. Cool and Serve:

Once the dish is done, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the bake to set and makes it easier to cut into neat portions. Serve it as a main dish or alongside a simple salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 6

KCAL: Approx. 400-450 calories per serving (depending on portion size and cheese used)

Explanation of the Recipe: Why It’s Timeless

This Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Bake is a timeless dish because it combines simple, accessible ingredients with rich flavors and a comforting texture. The zucchini, a vegetable that is often underappreciated in many dishes, takes center stage here. It provides moisture, freshness, and a subtle flavor that complements the richness of the ground beef and melted cheese.

The addition of rosemary gives the dish an aromatic depth, while the tomato paste and ketchup infuse the beef with tangy sweetness, creating a balanced and savory filling. Meanwhile, the eggs work as a binder, providing structure and creating a creamy texture that ties everything together. The cheddar cheese on top adds a layer of indulgence and turns the bake into a decadent comfort food that’s still nutritious.

What makes this recipe particularly timeless is its versatility and adaptability. Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that works well with a variety of proteins, from ground beef to chicken or turkey, and it can easily be swapped for other vegetables like eggplant or mushrooms. The base of the recipe—the eggs, cheese, and seasoning—remains constant, ensuring that the dish will always have the same satisfying flavor and texture, no matter how you choose to customize it.

In addition, this recipe is simple to prepare and doesn’t require any complicated techniques, making it accessible for even novice home cooks. It’s also a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor, making it perfect for both kids and adults. The balance of protein from the beef, fiber from the zucchini, and calcium from the cheese creates a well-rounded meal that satisfies all your nutritional needs.

Nutrition Facts (Approx. per serving):

• Calories: 400-450 kcal (depending on portion size and cheese)
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 230mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g (naturally occurring from the tomato paste and zucchini)
• Sodium: 650mg

FAQs:

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
A: Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. These options will still provide great flavor, but the texture and richness may differ slightly.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: While cheddar cheese gives the dish a rich flavor, you can easily swap it out for other cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or even a mix of cheeses. Just keep in mind that the meltability and flavor will vary depending on the type of cheese you use.

Q: How can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time, up to the point of baking. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and cook as directed, possibly adding an extra 5-10 minutes if it’s chilled from the fridge.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze this dish for later. After it has cooled, slice it into portions and place them in airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Tips for Making:

1. Thinly Slice the Zucchini: Make sure to slice the zucchini thinly to ensure it cooks through properly and blends well with the other ingredients.
2. Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the beef mixture to increase the nutrient density and add more flavor.
3. Season Well: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your taste. The rosemary and nutmeg add depth, but you can also experiment with other herbs like thyme, oregano, or even a pinch of cayenne for heat.
4. For Extra Crunch: Top the bake with a bit of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking for a crunchy topping.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat by baking at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Conclusion:

Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Bake is the epitome of comfort food. It’s an easy-to-make, flavorful, and filling meal that can be enjoyed by everyone. The richness of the ground beef, combined with the freshness of zucchini and the indulgence of melted cheddar cheese, makes for a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. With its versatility and simple ingredients, this bake is a timeless recipe that can be easily customized and enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this Cheesy Beef & Zucchini Bake is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.