This dump-and-bake casserole is the ultimate hands-off weeknight dinner: simply layer potatoes, zucchini, seasoned ground beef, and tomatoes, then let the oven do the rest. Everything bakes together into a hearty, cheesy one-dish meal that is perfect for busy evenings, with no pre-cooking and almost no cleanup. For another cozy baked favorite, try these Lazy Cabbage Rolls or Oven-Baked Stuffed Peppers.
Ingredients
- 2 zucchini
- 5 potatoes
- 1 onion
- 5 garlic cloves
- 400 g (14 oz) ground beef
- Black pepper, to taste
- Tomatoes
- Cheese, optional
Instructions
- Layer the onion, potatoes, and zucchini in a baking dish, salting each layer; add the beef seasoned with salt and pepper, then the garlic, tomatoes, and cheese if using.
- Cover with a lid and bake at 180C (350F) for 50 minutes.
Tips
- Salt each layer lightly as you build the casserole so every bite is seasoned through.
- Keep the dish covered while baking so the vegetables steam and turn tender; uncover for the last few minutes if you want the cheese to brown.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving so it slices neatly. For more layering ideas, see Serious Eats.
Nutrition per 100 g: 134 kcal, protein 9 g, fat 7 g, carbs 8 g.