Beefy Zucchini Gratin Shepherds Pie Gets a Veggie Upgrade

Recipe Introduction: Beefy Zucchini Gratins

Ever find yourself craving proper comfort food , but also thinking of your summer bod? Well, have I got the answer! Today, we're making beef mince and zucchini gratin .

It's hearty, it's comforting, and it's got hidden veggies. What's not to love?

What is Beef Zucchini Gratin?

This dish is basically a ground beef and zucchini bake . It's like a deconstructed shepherd's pie but healthier. Instead of mashed potatoes, we are using layers of tasty zucchini shepherd's pie .

It's great any night of the week, especially with easy zucchini recipes with ground beef .

The beef mince and zucchini gratin is a brilliant dish. It's not just delicious but also relatively easy to make.

This version has origins in classic European comfort cooking. Its italian zucchini and beef casserole is super easy and tastes great.

It's a crowd pleaser, perfect for feeding the family or impressing your mates. It takes about an hour, prep to finish, and makes about six servings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Honestly, this beef mince and zucchini gratin is a winner for so many reasons. It's sneaky healthy. Hello extra veggies! It's a great source of protein thanks to the beef.

If you are watching those carbs, you will be happy because this low carb zucchini gratin is delicious!

Imagine serving this up on a chilly Sunday evening. It's perfect with a side salad and some crusty bread for mopping up all that lovely sauce.

The best part? This beef mince zucchini bake feels fancy, but it's simple to make. It's a recipe you'll come back to again and again.

Now, let's get started with the ingredients for this amazing minced beef and vegetable bake !

Let's Talk Ingredients & Equipment

Right, let's dive into what you'll need to make this epic beef mince and zucchini gratin . This recipe is a game changer.

Trust me, it's so easy that you'll be adding it to your weekly rotation. Plus, it's a sneaky way to get those veggies in, especially if you have picky eaters.

Main Ingredients: The Beefy Foundation

Here's what you need for the beef mince filling :

• 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil for sizzling those aromatics.
• 1 large onion (about 1 cup, 150g), chopped finely.
• 2 cloves garlic (about 2 tsp, 6g), minced. It's true that there is no such thing as too much garlic.
• 500g (1.1 lbs) lean beef mince (ground beef). Look for an 80/20 mix. Not too fatty but with enough flavor.
• 1 tsp (5 ml) dried oregano. Adds that Italian touch to your beef mince recipe .
• 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) dried thyme. This goes hand in hand with oregano.
• 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) red pepper flakes (optional!). If you're feeling brave, adds a bit of zing.
• 400g (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes.
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) tomato paste. Adds richness.
• 100ml (3.5 fl oz) beef stock. You can use a cube if that’s all you've got in.
• Salt and pepper. To taste, obviously!
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) chopped fresh parsley. Adds freshness to your amazing ground beef and zucchini bake .

For the zucchini goodness on top:

• 3 medium zucchini (about 600g), thinly sliced. Aim for around 1/8 inch thick.
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil.
• 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) garlic powder.
• 50g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese. The real stuff, if you can!
• Salt and pepper. Again, to taste.

Quality Check: For the beef mince, a bright red color and fresh smell are key indicators of quality.

Seasoning & Flavor Magic

Honestly, the oregano and thyme are the stars here. They give that classic Italian zucchini and beef casserole vibe. Don't skip them! A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.

If you're not keen on heat, leave it out. A dash of Worcestershire sauce in the mince adds umami. You know, that savoury depth.

Equipment You'll Need

You really do not need anything fancy.

• A large skillet. To brown your beef mince .
• A 9x13 inch baking dish (23x33 cm).
• A knife. Although if you have a mandoline, use it to slice the zucchini thinly and evenly! Makes the zucchini shepherd's pie look professional.

And that's it! Simple, right? This beef zucchini gratin is more than just a recipe, it is a guaranteed crowd pleaser.

The blend of savoury beef mince zucchini bake and the fresh zucchini , all under a blanket of cheese. It is a comfort food recipe that'll have everyone asking for seconds.

Right then, let's get cracking on this Beef Mince and Zucchini Gratin . Think shepherd's pie, but with a lighter, veggie packed twist.

Perfect for a chilly evening when you fancy something comforting but don't want to feel like you've swallowed a brick.

Honestly, this is one of my go-to comfort food recipes

Cooking Method: Beefy Zucchini Gratin: Shepherd's Pie Gets a Veggie Upgrade

Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row

Essential mise en place is key. Chop your onion, mince your garlic, and slice your zucchini. Have all your ingredients measured out. This will save you stress later.

For time saving, I like to pre-chop my veg the night before. Keeps things simple when you're busy. Don't forget to give your chopping board a scrub after handling raw meat. Safety first.

step-by-step: From Humble Beginnings to Zucchini Glory

Here's how to nail this beef zucchini gratin . It's easier than you think.

1. Sauté chopped onion in 1 tbsp olive oil until softened. Add 2 cloves minced garlic . Cook until fragrant.
2. Brown 500g beef mince in the skillet, breaking it up. Drain any excess fat. Nobody likes a greasy gratin.
3. Stir in 1 tsp dried oregano , 1/2 tsp dried thyme , and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional). Cook for 1 minute .
4. Add 400g crushed tomatoes , 2 tbsp tomato paste , and 100ml beef stock . Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes . The sauce should thicken.
5. Toss 3 sliced zucchini with 2 tbsp olive oil , 1/2 tsp garlic powder , salt, and pepper.
6. Spread the beef mixture in a 9x13 inch baking dish . Layer zucchini slices over the mince. Overlap them nicely.
7. Sprinkle with 50g grated Parmesan cheese . Get that cheese everywhere.
8. Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 35 minutes . The zucchini should be golden. The cheese melted and bubbly. Let it rest for 5- 10 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips: Elevate Your Gratin Game

Slice that zucchini thinly. Like, really thinly. A mandoline is your friend. It guarantees even cooking. Nothing worse than crunchy zucchini.

Don't overcrowd the pan when browning the mince. Brown it in batches. Browning = flavour. I use that beef mince recipe all the time. So simple.

You can prep the minced beef and vegetable bake a day ahead. Just assemble and bake when you're ready. Dinner sorted.

This beef mince zucchini bake is delicious with a side salad. Or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Feel free to make it a zucchini shepherd's pie as well! It's all good!

Honestly? This Beef Mince and Zucchini Gratin is a winner. It uses simple techniques, that makes it an ideal easy zucchini recipes with ground beef .

A great way to get your veggies in without sacrificing flavour. It’s one of those comfort food recipes that just hits the spot, you know? For a healthier twist, try a low carb zucchini gratin option, you won't be dissapointed! Think of it as an italian zucchini and beef casserole , but with a simpler twist.

Recipe Notes for Your Beef Mince and Zucchini Gratin

Right, let's dive into making this beef mince and zucchini gratin a proper triumph. Honestly, it's one of those comfort food recipes that's surprisingly easy.

Just a few bits to bear in mind, yeah?

Serving Up This Cracking Dish

Think about how to plate this beauty! I like to serve it straight from the dish. It looks rustic and inviting.

A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens it up too. Maybe even a dollop of sour cream? You know, add a bit of pizzazz!

As for sides, a simple green salad works a treat. Keeps things light and fresh. Or how about some crusty bread? Perfect for mopping up all that gorgeous sauce! A glass of red wine? Oh my gosh, absolutely! It compliments the richness perfectly.

This italian zucchini and beef casserole is delicious!

Storage Like a Pro

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Let the beef zucchini gratin cool down completely. Then, bung it in an airtight container in the fridge.

It'll keep for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until warmed through.

Freezing is also an option. Cut the ground beef and zucchini bake into portions and freeze them separately. It will last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Swapping Things Around

Fancy a tweak? Go for it! For a low carb zucchini gratin , you can use a cheesy cauliflower mash on top.

It swaps out the zucchini while keeping all the comforting flavors.

Seasonal swaps are fun too! In the autumn, try adding some chopped butternut squash to the beef mixture. Adds a lovely sweetness and extra nutrients.

It is the perfect beef mince recipe !

Nutrition Nuggets

Each serving of this beef mince zucchini bake clocks in at roughly 350 calories. Packed with about 30g of protein. Great for keeping you full.

Zucchini's a star. Low in calories, high in vitamins. Plus, it adds a lovely texture. So, you're getting a healthy dose of goodness along with your easy zucchini recipes with ground beef .

We're talking a guilt free dose of deliciousness.

Don't forget it's an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.

Final Thoughts

There you have it! A simple, tasty, and adaptable recipe. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.

Now, go get that beef mince and zucchini gratin cooking, you legend!. Get ready to enjoy your minced beef and vegetable bake !