Zucchini Lasagna Recipe

This Zucchini Lasagna is a healthy and delicious twist on a classic Italian-American dish! Imagine layers of tender zucchini noodles, a rich and savory meat sauce, and a luscious ricotta and cottage cheese filling, all baked to bubbly perfection. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make and delivers a satisfying and lighter lasagna experience that’s perfect for a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier and Lighter: This recipe uses zucchini noodles instead of traditional lasagna noodles, making it a lower-carb and gluten-free option that’s packed with nutrients.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of ground turkey (or beef), Italian herbs, and a creamy cheese filling creates a delicious and satisfying lasagna that’s bursting with flavor.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize the meat sauce with your favorite vegetables or spices, or use a different type of cheese for the filling or topping.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Zucchini: Sliced into thin noodles to replace traditional lasagna noodles.
• Salt: Used to draw out excess moisture from the zucchini noodles.
• Olive oil: Used to cook the vegetables and prevent sticking.
• Yellow onion: Diced and adds a savory base and sweetness to the meat sauce.
• Ground turkey (or beef): Adds a hearty and savory element to the sauce.
• Garlic: Minced and adds a fragrant and savory punch.
• Part-skim ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor to the filling.
• Fat-free cottage cheese: Adds a lighter creaminess and protein to the filling.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty and umami flavor to the filling and topping.
• Egg: Binds the cheese filling together.
• Salt and pepper: Season the cheese filling and meat sauce to perfection.
• Dried oregano: Adds a classic Italian herb flavor to the filling.
• Fresh basil: Chopped and adds a fresh herb flavor to the filling.
• Marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara sauce.
• Lite shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds a cheesy and gooey topping.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Zucchini Lasagna

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Slice the zucchinis into thin, noodle-like strips, about ¼-inch thick. Lay the zucchini noodles on a baking sheet lined with paper towels and salt them liberally to draw out excess moisture. After 10 minutes, pat the zucchini noodles dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce

While the zucchini is salting, heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened. Add the ground turkey (or beef) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Turn off the heat.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, pepper, chopped basil, and dried oregano. Mix well. Stir in the cooked turkey mixture until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

Spread ½ cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange a layer of zucchini noodles over the sauce, making sure they are touching but not overlapping. Top with another ½ cup of marinara sauce, spreading it evenly. Add half of the ricotta and turkey mixture, spreading it evenly over the sauce. Sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with another layer of zucchini noodles, marinara sauce, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake the lasagna uncovered for 45 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Turn the oven to broil and broil for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and slightly crispy. Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes before serving. If there is excess liquid in the baking dish, carefully drain it before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Salt the zucchini: Salting the zucchini noodles helps to draw out excess moisture, preventing the lasagna from becoming watery.
• Use lean ground meat: For a healthier option, use lean ground turkey or ground beef.
• Don’t overcook the zucchini: The zucchini noodles will continue to cook in the oven, so don’t overcook them during the assembly process.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freeze for later: This lasagna freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

How to Serve

This Zucchini Lasagna is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the lasagna.
• Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for dipping and sopping up the extra sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a balanced and nutritious meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Zucchini Lasagna is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of squash?

While zucchini is recommended for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of squash, such as yellow squash or pattypan squash. However, the texture and cooking time may vary.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can! Omit the ground meat and use a plant-based meat substitute or add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers, to the sauce.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as ricotta cheese, provolone cheese, or a blend of Italian cheeses.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the dish?

Definitely! A pinch of red pepper flakes, dried oregano, or a bay leaf would be delicious additions to the meat sauce.

This Zucchini Lasagna Recipe is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy a classic Italian-American dish with a twist. With its easy preparation, versatile ingredients, and lighter profile, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

Print