Ingredients:

For the Meat Layer:

  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (look for one with no added sugar or make your own)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Veggie Layer:

  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced

For the Cheese Layer:

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish:

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
  3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
  4. Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes to let the flavors meld. Remove from heat.
  5. In a greased casserole dish, spread the meat mixture evenly as the first layer.
  6. Layer the sliced zucchinis, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and black olives on top of the meat mixture.
  7. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the veggies.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the veggies are tender.
  9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
  10. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving.