There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy dish bubbling away in the oven, and my Beef Mince and Zucchini Gratin is just that! This dish brings together layers of seasoned beef mince and tender zucchini, all topped with a golden, gooey cheese crust that’s impossible to resist. I remember my grandmother making a version of this dish on chilly Sundays, filling the house with the most amazing aromas. It was always a family favorite, and now, I whip it up for my own family, creating new memories around the dinner table. Trust me, once you try this gratin, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds!

Ingredients List

• 500g beef mince (choose a good quality minced beef for the best flavor)
• 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds (aim for even slices for consistent cooking)
• 1 onion, diced (a yellow onion works beautifully for sweetness)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic is key for that punchy flavor)
• 400g canned tomatoes (crushed or diced, whichever you prefer)
• 200g shredded cheese (I love using mozzarella or cheddar for a melty topping)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for added richness)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (this adds a lovely herbaceous note)
• 1 teaspoon salt (to season the beef and enhance the flavors)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for the best taste)

How to Prepare Beef Mince and Zucchini Gratin

Preheat and Sauté

First things first, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This is crucial because you want your gratin to start cooking as soon as it hits the oven! While that’s warming up, grab a large skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until they’re nice and translucent. This step builds a flavorful base for your dish, so don’t rush it!

Cooking the Beef Mixture

Now it’s time to add the star of the show: the beef mince! Increase the heat slightly and add the beef to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. You’ll want to stir it frequently for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned all over. This is super important because browning the meat adds depth of flavor. Don’t worry if it clumps a bit; just keep breaking it apart. Once it’s browned, stir in the canned tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Layering the Gratin

With your beef mixture ready, it’s time to assemble the gratin! In a baking dish, start by layering half of the zucchini slices on the bottom. Make sure they’re evenly spread out—this helps them cook uniformly. Next, spoon half of the beef mixture over the zucchini, spreading it out gently. Follow this with the remaining zucchini slices and then the rest of the beef mixture on top. This layering technique creates a wonderful balance of flavors and textures throughout the dish.

Baking the Dish

Now for the best part—baking! Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top of your layered dish. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. It’s such a beautiful sight! Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This waiting time helps it set a bit, making it easier to serve. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!

Nutritional Information

While I always recommend enjoying this Beef Mince and Zucchini Gratin in moderation, here’s a rough estimate of its nutritional values per serving (1/4 of the dish): around 350 calories, 20g of fat, 30g of protein, and 12g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind that exact values may vary based on specific ingredients used, so consider this as a guideline rather than a strict rule.

Tips for Success

To really nail this Beef Mince and Zucchini Gratin, here are a few pro tips! First, try to slice your zucchini as evenly as possible; this ensures they cook uniformly. If you’d like to add some depth of flavor, consider browning the beef mince in batches for an even richer taste. Also, don’t skimp on the cheese—go for a generous layer on top for that deliciously gooey crust! If you want a bit of crunch, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with herbs over the cheese before baking. And finally, let it rest after baking; this makes serving a breeze and enhances the flavors!

Variations on Beef Mince and Zucchini Gratin

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this Beef Mince and Zucchini Gratin! For a Mediterranean twist, add some chopped bell peppers and olives to the beef mixture. You could also throw in some fresh basil or thyme for an aromatic lift. Want a bit of heat? Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking the beef. For a veggie-packed version, layer in some spinach or mushrooms along with the zucchini. And if you’re a fan of different cheeses, try using feta or goat cheese for a tangy kick. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions

This Beef Mince and Zucchini Gratin is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to elevate your dining experience, consider pairing it with a fresh, crisp salad. A simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette adds a delightful peppery contrast to the creamy gratin. You could also serve it alongside some crusty garlic bread to soak up all those delicious juices. For a heartier option, roasted vegetables or a medley of seasonal greens would complement the dish perfectly. And don’t forget a glass of red wine, like a Chianti, to round out the meal beautifully!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To store any leftovers of this delicious Beef Mince and Zucchini Gratin, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. This will help maintain that lovely cheesy texture and flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick prep time—ready in just 45 minutes!
• Comforting layers of flavor that warm your heart.
• Healthy ingredients like zucchini packed with nutrients.
• Easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices.
• A family-friendly dish that’s sure to impress!
• Perfect for meal prep—enjoy delicious leftovers!

Delicious Beef Mince and Zucchini Gratin in 30 Minutes!

---

• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Calorie

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A savory dish featuring layers of seasoned beef mince and zucchini baked with cheese.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 500g beef mince
• 3 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 400g canned tomatoes
• 200g shredded cheese (e.g., mozzarella or cheddar)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. Add beef mince to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
4. Stir in canned tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a baking dish, layer half of the zucchini slices on the bottom.
6. Spread half of the beef mixture over the zucchini.
7. Add the remaining zucchini slices and top with the rest of the beef mixture.
8. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• You can substitute beef mince with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor.
• For a spicier version, include red pepper flakes in the meat mixture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 of the dish
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: beef mince, zucchini gratin, baked dishes, Italian cuisine