One-pan skillet layered with tender zucchini, ground beef, tomato sauce, and melted cheese.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into thin ribbons
02 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Meats
04 - 1 lb lean ground beef
→ Dairy
05 - 1 cup ricotta cheese
06 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
07 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Sauce & Canned Goods
08 - 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
09 - 2 tbsp tomato paste
→ Seasonings
10 - 1 tsp dried oregano
11 - 1 tsp dried basil
12 - 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
13 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Oils
14 - 2 tbsp olive oil
# Step-by-step Directions:
01 - Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
02 - Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until fully browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
03 - Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
04 - Arrange half of the zucchini ribbons evenly over the meat sauce. Spread half of the ricotta cheese atop the zucchini, then sprinkle with one-third of the shredded mozzarella and some grated Parmesan cheese.
05 - Repeat layering with remaining zucchini, remaining ricotta, and another third of mozzarella and Parmesan. Top with the last portion of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly distributed.
06 - Cover the skillet and cook over low heat for 10 minutes, until the zucchini softens.
07 - Place skillet under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes to brown the cheese surface if desired. Serve promptly while hot.
