Zucchini and Ground Meat Casserole with Sour Cream and Dill

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This Zucchini and Ground Meat Casserole with Sour Cream and Dill is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender zucchini, savory ground meat, fresh herbs, and a rich, creamy topping. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that is perfect for lunch or dinner and will surely satisfy your hunger. The unique combination of textures from the tender zucchini and the crispy, cheesy topping makes this casserole a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly weeknight meal or something hearty for a gathering, this dish will not disappoint!

Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

1/2 zucchini, thinly sliced
400 g (14 oz) ground meat (beef, turkey, or pork)
2 eggs

3 spring onions, finely chopped
Fresh dill, to taste
Fresh parsley, to taste

1 carrot, grated
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Spices (e.g., paprika, cumin, or your preferred spices)
3 tbsp all-purpose flour

For the Topping:

100 g (3.5 oz) cheese (cheddar or mozzarella), grated
3 tbsp sour cream

1 pickle, chopped
Fresh dill, for garnish

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by slicing the zucchini thinly and set it aside. Grate the carrot and finely chop the spring onions, dill, and parsley. These will add flavor and texture to the casserole.

Cook the Ground Meat:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground meat. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned, about 7–10 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and your preferred spices (paprika, cumin, or chili powder work well). Once browned, add the chopped spring onions and grated carrots to the skillet. Sauté for another 3–4 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, beat the two eggs. Add the cooked ground meat mixture, fresh dill, parsley, and 3 tablespoons of flour. Mix everything well to combine into a thick, cohesive filling.
Assemble the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F). Grease a baking dish with a little oil or butter. Place a layer of thinly sliced zucchini in the bottom of the dish. Spoon the ground meat mixture over the zucchini and spread it evenly.

Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the grated cheese, sour cream, and chopped pickle. Stir until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the casserole. This will form a deliciously creamy and cheesy topping.
Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, check if the top is golden and bubbly. If necessary, bake for an additional 5 minutes for a crispier crust.
Serve and Garnish:
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh dill and serve warm.

Nutritional Information (per serving; makes 4 servings)

Calories: 300 kcal
Protein: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sodium: 480 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

This casserole combines Mediterranean influences with a hearty, rustic appeal. Ground meat casseroles are staples in many cuisines, often using vegetables like zucchini and eggplant to provide freshness and texture. The addition of fresh herbs, sour cream, and cheese adds richness and depth, making this dish a popular choice for home cooks across Europe and beyond. Its simplicity and versatility have made it a favorite for both busy weeknights and gatherings.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

Comforting: The creamy, cheesy topping adds comfort to the savory ground meat and tender vegetables.
Flavorful: Fresh herbs, spices, and a bit of tangy sour cream elevate the flavors.

Healthy: Packed with vegetables like zucchini and carrots, it’s a nutrient-dense meal.
Easy to Make: This one-dish recipe is simple to prepare and requires minimal hands-on time.

Health Benefits

Zucchini: A low-calorie vegetable rich in antioxidants, fiber, and essential vitamins like vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system.

Ground Meat: Provides high-quality protein, essential for muscle maintenance and repair.
Carrots: High in beta-carotene and fiber, carrots are great for eye health and digestion.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill contain antioxidants that help combat inflammation and support overall health.

Serving Suggestions

Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad dressed in olive oil and lemon to balance the richness of the casserole.
Garlic Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread for a comforting meal.
Wine Pairing: A glass of dry white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs perfectly with the richness of this dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Zucchini: Make sure to slice the zucchini thinly, as it cooks quickly and should be tender but not mushy by the time it’s baked.
Underseasoning: Ground meat needs ample seasoning to bring out its flavor. Taste the mixture before baking and adjust salt, pepper, and spices.
Skipping the Resting Time: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to ensure the layers set properly.

Pairing Recommendations

Wine: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light rosé complements the richness of the casserole.
Beer: A refreshing pilsner or pale ale pairs well with the savory flavors of the ground meat.
Non-Alcoholic: Iced herbal tea with lemon or sparkling water with mint offers a refreshing contrast.

Cooking Tips

Pre-cook the Ground Meat: Make sure to cook the ground meat thoroughly before adding it to the casserole, as this helps release excess fat and gives it more flavor.
Customizing Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the filling for added nutrition.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day ahead and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Similar Recipes to Try

Eggplant Parmesan: A classic Italian dish with layers of eggplant, marinara sauce, and cheese.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Ground meat and rice stuffed inside colorful bell peppers, baked in tomato sauce.
Moussaka: A Greek dish with layers of eggplant, ground lamb, and béchamel sauce.

Variations to Try

Vegetarian Version: Replace ground meat with lentils, tofu, or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
Cheese Variations: Try adding feta, goat cheese, or ricotta to the filling for a different flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add some chili flakes or jalapeños to the meat mixture for a spicy twist.

Ingredient Spotlight

Zucchini
Zucchini is a versatile and nutrient-packed vegetable. It’s high in antioxidants, particularly lutein and zeaxanthin, which help protect eyesight. It’s also rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function, and is low in calories, making it perfect for a light yet filling meal.

Conclusion

This Zucchini and Ground Meat Casserole with Sour Cream and Dill is a perfect dish for any occasion—hearty enough for a main course, yet light enough for a refreshing family dinner. With its delicious blend of vegetables, savory meat, and creamy cheese, it’s a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. Whether for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this casserole is a winner!

FAQ

Can I use a different kind of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or lamb in place of beef.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready.

Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, use plant-based ground meat and dairy-free cheese options for a vegan version.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers would work well in this casserole.

How can I make this spicier?
Add chili flakes or jalapeños to the ground meat mixture for extra heat.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Thaw and bake as usual.
What’s the best way to reheat this casserole?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, or until heated through.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the breadcrumbs entirely.
What can I serve with this casserole?
Pair it with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.