Ground Beef Rice Casserole with Zucchini

Step 1

Cook the rice according to your package directions.

Step 2

During the last 15 minutes of rice cooking, cook the ground beef in a large skillet.

Step 3

While the rice and ground beef are cooking, grate the zucchini and press the excess moisture out of it with a paper towel. (It's okay if it's still a bit damp. You just don't want it soggy.)

Step 4

Once the ground beef is browned, drain the excess oil from the pan.

Step 5

Preheat oven to 350 F.

Step 6

Add the tomato paste, water or broth, cumin, salt, black pepper, and onion and garlic powders. Mix all ingredients together to incorporate.

Step 7

In the bottom of a 9 x 9 baking dish, drizzle about 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the cooked rice and press it snuggly down. Top evenly with shredded zucchini and press lightly down.

Step 8

Add half the shredded cheese in an even layer followed by the cooked ground beef.

Step 9

Top with the remaining cheese and bake uncovered for 30 minutes at 350 degrees F.