Are you ready to dive into a deliciously healthy dish that will have your family asking for seconds? I’m talking about my Healthy Zucchini Lasagna! This recipe is not only a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies, but it’s also a delightful twist on traditional lasagna that everyone will love. With layers of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and fresh zucchini, it’s the perfect option for quick family dinners or any night of the week. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a healthier alternative to traditional lasagna, packed with fresh ingredients.
- Perfect for 30-minute meals that don’t skimp on flavor.
- Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
- Great for meal prep and leftovers!
- It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a true family friendly meal.
Ingredients
To make this scrumptious Zucchini Lasagna, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3–4 large zucchini (sliced lengthwise into ribbons)
- Salt (for drawing out moisture)
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing, optional)
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 yellow onion (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2–3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
- 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- ¼ cup fresh basil (chopped, optional)
- 1 egg (for ricotta mixture)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Now, let’s get to the fun part—making this delicious lasagna recipe!
- Start by slicing the zucchini lengthwise into ribbons. Sprinkle salt on the slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture. This step is crucial for preventing a soggy lasagna!
- While the zucchini is draining, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. Stir in the marinara sauce and seasonings, then let it simmer for about 10 minutes to thicken.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, half of the mozzarella, chopped basil, and black pepper to create a creamy cheese filling.
- Now it’s time to layer! In a baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce, followed by a layer of zucchini ribbons, and then a layer of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of meat sauce and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 10 minutes before cutting into it.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your easy zucchini lasagna turns out perfectly:
- Don’t skip the salting step for the zucchini! It’s essential for achieving the right texture.
- Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option.
- If you’re short on time, use store-bought marinara sauce to speed up the process.
- For an extra kick, add some red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- Make it a one pot meal by serving it with a simple side salad or garlic bread!
How to Serve
This Zucchini Lasagna is best served warm, straight from the oven. Pair it with a fresh garden salad or some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also sprinkle some extra fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. It’s a fantastic dish for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner!
Make Ahead and Storage
If you want to prepare this dish in advance, you can assemble the lasagna a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to cover it tightly with foil. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This makes it a great option for quick weeknight dinners!
So there you have it! A delicious, healthy, and easy way to enjoy lasagna that your whole family will love. If you’re looking for more easy pasta recipes, check out my Ground Beef Stroganoff or Beef with Broccoli for more inspiration. Happy cooking!
Zucchini Lasagna
Ingredients
Method
- Slice zucchini, salt, and drain thoroughly to remove moisture.
- Brown meat with onions and garlic, add marinara and seasonings, then simmer to thicken.
- Mix ricotta, egg, mozzarella, basil, and pepper to make the cheese filling.
- Layer sauce, zucchini, and cheese in a baking dish, repeat, and top with more cheese.
- Bake covered, then uncovered; let rest 10 minutes before serving.