Ground Beef Zucchini and Cherry Tomato Bake

When you want a hearty, satisfying meal that fits a keto lifestyle without relying on breadcrumbs, this Ground Beef Zucchini and Cherry Tomato Bake is a perfect choice. It combines the rich flavor of seasoned ground beef with fresh vegetables and melty cheese, all baked together in one dish. This recipe is simple to prepare, packed with nutrients, and delivers a comforting dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste or your dietary goals.

Ground Beef Zucchini and Cherry Tomato Bake fresh from the oven

Why This Bake Works for Keto and Beyond

Many keto recipes rely on breadcrumbs or other fillers to add texture, but those can add unwanted carbs. This bake skips the breadcrumbs or makes them optional, focusing instead on fresh vegetables like zucchini and cherry tomatoes to provide moisture and flavor. The ground beef offers protein and fat, while the cheeses add richness and a satisfying golden crust.

This dish is also flexible. You can swap out mozzarella for a dairy-free cheese if you prefer, or adjust the spice level with crushed red pepper flakes. The combination of Italian seasoning and fresh vegetables creates a balanced flavor profile that appeals to a wide range of tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 zucchini, diced

• 1 yellow squash, diced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella (or dairy-free cheese)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan

• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional)

• Olive oil or melted butter, for drizzling

  
  

These ingredients come together to create a dish that is both flavorful and keto-friendly. The zucchini and yellow squash add bulk and nutrients without many carbs, while the cherry tomatoes provide a burst of sweetness and acidity.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (about 200°C) and lightly grease an 8x8-inch baking dish or something similar.

2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Season with salt and pepper as it cooks.

3. Transfer the cooked beef to the prepared baking dish. There’s no need to cook the vegetables beforehand.

4. Add the raw vegetables directly into the dish: start with onion, garlic, zucchini, and yellow squash, then add the cherry tomatoes last.

5. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes over the mixture, then stir everything gently to combine.

6. Add Parmesan and breadcrumbs if using, mixing lightly. The breadcrumbs are optional and can be left out for a stricter keto version.

7. Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the top to help with browning and flavor.

8. Bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes. Halfway through baking, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top to melt and brown.

9. Remove from oven when the top is golden and bubbly. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.

   
   

Tips for Success

• Use fresh, firm zucchini and yellow squash to avoid excess moisture that can make the bake watery.

• If you want a little extra crunch without breadcrumbs, try topping with crushed pork rinds or chopped nuts.

• For a dairy-free version, substitute mozzarella and Parmesan with plant-based cheeses that melt well.

• Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley after baking brightens the dish.

• Serve this bake on its own for a low-carb meal or over cauliflower rice for extra volume without carbs.

  
  

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bake is a great way to enjoy a comforting casserole without the carbs from breadcrumbs or pasta. It’s easy to prepare, requiring just one pan for cooking the beef and one dish for baking. The combination of ground beef, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes creates a balanced meal with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

The melted mozzarella and Parmesan add a creamy, golden finish that makes this dish feel indulgent while still fitting your keto goals. Plus, the recipe is versatile enough to customize with your favorite spices or vegetables.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

• Fresh herbs like basil or parsley sprinkled on top add color and freshness.

• Serve with a side salad or steamed greens for a complete meal.

• Add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of pesto for extra flavor.

• Swap yellow squash for eggplant or mushrooms to change up the texture.

• For a spicier version, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce before baking.

  
  

This bake also works well for meal prep. It reheats nicely and can be portioned out for lunches or quick dinners during the week.