Zucchini Beef Bake

Zucchini is a favorite vegetable for cooks because it can be used in countless ways. Here it teams up with ground beef, rice and cheese for a pretty, palate-pleasing meal.— Christy Saniga,...

Directions In a large saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add zucchini. Return to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 3 minutes or just until tender. Drain and immediately place zucchini...

Ingredients

• 6 cups water
• 4 cups sliced zucchini
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 cup (8 ounces) 4% cottage cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh oregano or 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh basil or 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese