Ground Beef and Summer Squash Bake

Name: Ground Beef and Summer Squash Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 medium summer squash, sliced; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Warm Bowl Creations

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Summer Squash Bake, especially during summer when squash is fresh and plentiful. It’s a comforting dish that combines the heartiness of ground beef with the vibrant flavors of summer vegetables. In just about an hour, I can create a meal that pleases my whole family. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means less cleaning up afterwards! This recipe is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to incorporate more veggies into our meals.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-01-30T22:10:28.111Z

When I first tried making a summer bake, I didn’t expect it to become a go-to recipe for the season. I experimented with different vegetables and spices, and this combination of ground beef and squash really stood out. The savory beef pairs perfectly with the tender squash, creating a delightful melody of flavors.

One trick I discovered is to sauté the ground beef with garlic and onions before adding the squash. This layering of flavors makes every bite rich and fulfilling. Plus, using lots of herbs enhances the freshness of the dish, making it a great summer option!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying with a fresh twist
Easy cleanup with just one pan
Great for using up summer squash
Highly customizable with your favorite herbs and spices

Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients greatly affects the final taste of the Ground Beef and Summer Squash Bake. Fresh summer squash not only adds a vibrant color to the dish but also contributes a subtle sweetness. Look for squash that feels firm and has smooth skin, avoiding any that are soft or blemished. If you can't find summer squash, zucchini makes an excellent substitution, enhancing both texture and flavor.

Using high-quality ground beef can also elevate this dish. I recommend choosing a lean-to-medium blend (80/20 to 85/15) as it provides enough fat to keep the meat juicy without being overly greasy. For those seeking a healthier alternative, ground turkey or chicken could be used, though it may alter the flavor profile slightly. Just be mindful of adjusting seasonings to enhance the taste.

Tips for Perfect Texture and Cooking Times

Proper cooking times are crucial for achieving the right texture, especially for the squash. When sautéing, cook the squash just long enough to start softening, about 5 minutes, to avoid mushiness. It should maintain a slight bite, which provides a pleasant contrast to the browned beef and melted cheese. If you prefer a firmer texture, consider add the squash 10 minutes before baking instead of adding it in the sauté step.

Keep an eye on the bake time as well. Ovens can vary, so check the dish around the 25-minute mark. You want the cheese to be bubbly and slightly golden, indicating it’s melted perfectly. If browning too quickly, tent the dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning while the remainder cooks through.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
2 medium summer squash, sliced
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sauté the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Add the Squash

Stir in the sliced summer squash and canned diced tomatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes until the squash starts to soften.

Combine and Bake

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Pro Tips

Feel free to mix in other summer vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrition. You can also top with fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving for an extra pop of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef and Summer Squash Bake can be served on its own or paired with sides for a more rounded meal. Consider serving it alongside a simple green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette, which will provide a refreshing contrast to the heartiness of the bake. Adding some crusty bread can also help soak up any delicious juices.

For a fun twist on presentation, try layering the bake with extra cheese and broiling it for the last few minutes. This creates a bubbly, golden crust that is enticing and can be served family-style in the baking dish or plated individually for a sophisticated touch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

This dish stores well and is an excellent candidate for meal prep. After baking, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. If freezing, consider leaving out the cheese until reheating to maintain better texture.

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also use a microwave, but I recommend using a microwave-safe dish and heating in intervals to ensure it’s warmed evenly without overcooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative to beef.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, just ensure that your cheese and canned tomatoes don’t contain any gluten additives.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble it ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with this bake?

It pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.