Zucchini Lasagna

Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, rich, saucy, and full of cheesy goodness. But when you’re looking for something a little lighter without sacrificing flavor, zucchini lasagna steps in as the perfect alternative. It has all the layers and satisfaction of the original, just without the heavy pasta.

Instead of traditional noodles, thin slices of zucchini are used to build the layers. When sliced lengthwise and lightly cooked, zucchini takes on a soft, pliable texture that works beautifully in lasagna. It absorbs flavor well, keeps the dish fresh, and adds a slight sweetness that complements the savory filling.

One of the best parts about zucchini lasagna is its versatility. You can keep it vegetarian with a simple ricotta and spinach mixture, or go heartier with a meat sauce made from ground beef, turkey, or even plant-based alternatives. The key is balance—rich tomato sauce, creamy cheese, and tender zucchini working together in each bite.

Baking it in the oven brings everything together. As it cooks, the zucchini releases some moisture, helping the layers meld into a cohesive, flavorful dish. A final sprinkle of cheese on top melts into a golden crust that adds just the right amount of indulgence.

Zucchini lasagna is perfect for those looking to eat low-carb or gluten-free, but it doesn’t feel like a compromise. It’s hearty, satisfying, and still hits all the right comfort food notes. And while it’s a bit more delicate than the traditional version, it holds its own as a main course, whether for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Leftovers reheat well, and some say it even tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to blend. It’s proof that a few small changes, like swapping pasta for fresh veggies, can completely transform a dish without losing its soul. Zucchini lasagna may be lighter, but it’s just as cozy and crave-worthy as the original.

Zucchini Lasagna

3.65 from 123 votes

A delicious and healthier twist on traditional lasagna, using zucchini slices in place of pasta.

Servings 4 people

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

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Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 3 zucchinis medium, sliced lengthwise into thin slices
• 1 pound ground beef can use ground turkey or chicken as a substitute
• 2 cups marinara sauce use your favorite store-bought or homemade
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
• 1 egg beaten, large
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper or to taste

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Drain any excess fat.
• Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, and dried basil. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
• In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
• Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Place a layer of zucchini slices over the sauce, then spread a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture on top of the zucchini. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper.
• Repeat these layers ending with a layer of meat sauce, and then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
• Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 26gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 850mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 3mg

Calories: 350kcal

Meal Type: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: healthy eating, vegetarian, Zucchini Recipes

Cooking Method: Baked

Time: >45 Min

Level: Easy

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