Zucchini Lasagna RECIPE
This flavorful, easy-to-make Zucchini Lasagna combines wholesome, fresh ingredients for a hearty main course that’s both satisfying and nutritious. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and health, ready to impress with minimal effort. Ideal for meal prep or family dinners, this dish reheats beautifully, making it a versatile and convenient option for any occasion.
Zucchini Lasagna Recipe
Prep: 30 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
This Zucchini Lasagna is a flavorful, hearty, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it offers rich, satisfying layers in every bite. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as leftovers, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite!
Kitchen Tools Needed
Spatula
9x13-inch casserole or baking dish
Cutting Board
Aluminum Foil
Oven Mitts
Ingredients
For the zucchini layers:
- 3-4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced lengthwise (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the meat sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the cheese filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Prepare the zucchini slices:
- Slice the zucchinis lengthwise into thin strips using a mandoline or a sharp knife.
- Lay the slices out on paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Sprinkle lightly with salt to draw out moisture. Let them sit for about 15 minutes, then pat dry with more paper towels.
Cook the meat sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 3 minutes).
- Add the ground meat, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer on low for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the cheese mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, basil, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth.
Assemble the lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
- Layer zucchini slices to cover the bottom (overlapping slightly).
- Spread a third of the ricotta mixture over the zucchini slices, followed by a third of the meat sauce. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers (zucchini, ricotta, meat sauce, mozzarella) until ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top.
Bake:
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil (to prevent excessive browning) and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Rest and serve:
- Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes to allow it to set before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Nutrition Information: Here’s an estimate of the nutrition facts for 1 serving of zucchini lasagna (based on 8 servings per 9x13-inch casserole dish). The calculations can vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used.
Serving: 1 serving, Calories: 290 kcal, Carbohydrates: 8g, Protein: 22g, Fat: 18g, Saturated fat: 6g, Cholesterol: 80mg, Sodium: 580mg, Fiber: 2g.
Benefits of zucchini lasagna
Quick and Easy:
- Requires minimal prep and is ready in no time, perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
Low-Carb
- By replacing traditional lasagna noodles with zucchini, this dish significantly reduces carbohydrate content.
Protein-Packed:
- The ground meat, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese provide a good source of protein, which helps build and repair muscles and keeps you feeling full longer.
Meal Prep-Friendly
- This lasagna stores well and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping or leftovers.
This dish is not just comforting and delicious, but it also supports balanced nutrition by providing a hearty mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, while being low in carbs and rich in essential vitamins and minerals.
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