Low-Carb Ground Beef Zucchini Bake

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When comfort food meets healthy eating, magic happens—and this Low-Carb Ground Beef Zucchini Bake is proof. Juicy ground beef, tender zucchini, melted cheese, and warm spices come together in a bubbling casserole that’s both filling and guilt-free. Whether you’re following a keto plan or simply cutting back on carbs, this dish is a family-friendly favorite you’ll want to keep in your weekly dinner rotation.

This bake is all about balance. The zucchini lends moisture and freshness, while the seasoned beef delivers savory depth. Add in a generous handful of cheese and herbs, and you’ve got a dish that tastes indulgent but still fits your macros. It’s simple to make, reheats well, and leaves everyone at the table asking for seconds.

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What Kind of Zucchini Works Best?

Medium zucchini work beautifully here—they’re tender but firm enough to hold up in baking. Avoid oversized zucchinis that can be watery and seedy. If your zucchini is particularly juicy, consider salting and draining it first to prevent excess moisture in the dish.

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Ingredients for the Low-Carb Ground Beef Zucchini Bake

• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce (sugar-free if needed)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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How To Make the Low-Carb Ground Beef Zucchini Bake

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and set it aside. Slice your zucchini into thin, even rounds for consistent baking.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, warm a bit of olive oil and add the chopped onions. Sauté until translucent, then stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in the tomato sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Layer the Bake

In the prepared baking dish, layer half the zucchini rounds on the bottom. Spoon half the beef mixture over the zucchini, then sprinkle with half the cheddar and Parmesan. Repeat the layers: zucchini, beef, and the remaining cheese.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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Serving and Storing This Zucchini Bake

This bake is satisfying enough to serve on its own, but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a fuller meal. For meal prep, it stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. You can also freeze individual portions for quick low-carb lunches.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the zucchini from getting soggy?

Lightly salting the zucchini slices and letting them sit for 10-15 minutes before blotting with a paper towel helps draw out excess moisture.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey is a leaner option and works just as well in this recipe.

What cheeses can I substitute?

Feel free to try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for a different cheesy flavor profile.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, especially if you use a low-carb tomato sauce. The cheese and ground beef help keep it high in protein and fat.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

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Want More Casserole Ideas with Flavorful Twists?

If this Low-Carb Ground Beef Zucchini Bake hit the spot, you might also love these hearty comfort food ideas:

• Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet
• Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole
• The Ultimate Taco Casserole Recipe
• Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole
• One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest low-carb board so you can make it again and again.

And if you try it out, let me know in the comments how it turned out for you. Did you add mushrooms or change up the seasoning? I love hearing your personal twists!

For more delicious everyday recipes, check out my Pinterest page here.

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