1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 🔥

2️⃣ Slice the zucchini into rounds and place them in a colander in the sink. Sprinkle with salt to draw out excess water. Allow them to sit while you prepare the rest of the dish. 🥒

3️⃣ Grease or spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish and set aside. 🥄

4️⃣ In a large skillet or pot, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium heat. 🍳

5️⃣ Sauté the chopped onion until soft and beginning to brown, about 5-10 minutes. 🧅

6️⃣ Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. 🧄

7️⃣ Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. 🥩

8️⃣ Once the beef is cooked through, add the crushed tomatoes, cottage cheese (or ricotta), ½ cup of parmesan cheese, tomato paste, and broth or water. Stir until well combined. 🍅🧀

9️⃣ After allowing the zucchini to sit for a while, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove the excess moisture. 🥒

🔟 Layer half of the zucchini slices at the bottom of the greased casserole dish. 🍲

1️⃣1️⃣ Spread half of the beef mixture over the zucchini. 🍲

1️⃣2️⃣ Repeat the layers with the remaining zucchini and beef mixture. 🍲

1️⃣3️⃣ Top the casserole with shredded Mozzarella cheese. 🧀

1️⃣4️⃣ Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. ⏳

1️⃣5️⃣ Garnish with fresh basil before serving. 🌿

Enjoy your Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole! 😋