Zucchini Taco Casserole 🥒🌮

This flavorful Zucchini Taco Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional taco night! Packed with nutritious zucchini, seasoned ground meat (or a plant-based alternative), and topped with gooey cheese, it's a hearty dish that's perfect for a cozy family dinner. Layered with your favorite taco toppings, it's a one-pan wonder that everyone will love!

Ingredients

For the casserole

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced thinly
• 1 pound ground beef, turkey, or a plant-based substitute
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade: chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with green chilies for extra heat)
• 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or vegan cheese)

For the topping

• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sour cream or plain yogurt (optional)
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

🥄 Make sure the garlic doesn’t burn, as it can turn bitter. Stir it in just before adding the meat.

• Add the ground meat or plant-based substitute to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with taco seasoning and cook until browned.

• Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, and corn. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.

• In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced zucchini on the bottom. Then, spoon half of the meat mixture over the zucchini. Sprinkle with cheese. Repeat these layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.

• Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

• Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes.

🧊 Allowing the casserole to sit will help it hold together when you cut into it, making serving easier!

• Top with diced avocado, fresh tomatoes, black olives, and cilantro before serving. Offer sour cream and lime wedges on the side for added flavor.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and extra beans for a hearty veggie option! 🍄
• Low-carb/Keto: Omit black beans and corn, or replace them with sautéed bell peppers to keep the delicious flavors while reducing carbs.
• Spicy: Add jalapeño slices to the meat mixture, or drench the final pile of toppings in your favorite hot sauce for a kick. 🌶️
• Cheesy: Extend the cheese factor by adding cream cheese to the meat mixture or using a blend of different cheeses for pulling power!

Enjoy this delightful casserole at your next family gathering or taco night, and watch it disappear! 🌟