Ground Beef Zucchini Bake

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet, seasoning with oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
4. Add marinara sauce to the cooked beef and stir well to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. In a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish, add a layer of sliced zucchini.
6. Spread a layer of ricotta cheese over the zucchini, followed by a layer of the beef mixture.
7. Sprinkle a portion of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top.
8. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a mozzarella and Parmesan layer.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
10. Allow to cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve warm.

Chef’s Tips

• Use a mandoline slicer for evenly thin zucchini slices.
• For extra flavor, add sliced mushrooms or spinach to the layers.
• Let the bake sit for 10 minutes before serving to help it set and make slicing easier.

Nutrition (per serving)

Approximate calories: 350, Protein: 28g, Carbs: 12g, Fat: 20g

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