Zucchini Lasagna With Meat Sauce

Name: Zucchini Lasagna With Meat Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise; 1 pound ground beef (or turkey); 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Soulful Dishes

I absolutely love making Zucchini Lasagna With Meat Sauce. The fresh zucchini slices replace traditional pasta, giving a light and healthy twist to a classic favorite. Every time I prepare this dish, I marvel at how the flavors meld together, creating a rich, savory experience without the heaviness of regular lasagna. My family can’t get enough of it, and it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra vegetables. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked on this satisfying and wholesome meal!

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:49:37.234Z

When I first attempted to create a healthy version of lasagna, I was surprised by how easily zucchini transformed this beloved dish. The key is to slice the zucchini thinly and salt it to draw out excess moisture. This simple step prevents the lasagna from becoming soggy and allows the flavors to really shine.

As I layered the zucchini with a homemade meat sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella, I realized that the dish was not only delicious but also visually stunning. Each bake delivers a delicious aroma that fills my kitchen, making it impossible to resist diving in right away!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A healthy alternative to traditional lasagna that still satisfies your cravings.
Hearty meat sauce bursting with flavor, making every bite unforgettable.
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep or family dinners.

Mastering Zucchini as a Pasta Substitute

Using zucchini in place of traditional pasta brings both flavor and texture to this dish. For the best results, choose firm zucchini and slice them evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. Slicing lengthwise not only mimics lasagna noodles but also allows the zucchini to absorb the flavors of the meat sauce and ricotta filling. A mandoline can help achieve perfectly thin and consistent slices that will enhance the overall texture of your lasagna.

After salting the zucchini and letting it drain, pat the strips dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial, as it prevents your lasagna from becoming watery. The drained zucchini will hold up better in the oven, providing a satisfying bite that complements the rich meat sauce and creamy cheese.

Perfecting the Meat Sauce

The meat sauce is the heart of this dish, packed with layers of flavor that elevate the zucchini lasagna. When browning the ground beef or turkey, aim for a deep, golden-brown color, which indicates that the meat has developed a rich flavor through the Maillard reaction. Don’t skip seasoning early in the cooking process; it helps the meat absorb the flavors of garlic and herbs more effectively.

If you're looking to make this dish healthier or more budget-friendly, consider swapping half of the meat with finely chopped mushrooms or lentils. This not only stretches your protein, but also adds a lovely umami depth. Adjust the simmering time for flavor melding as needed, ensuring that the sauce thickens beautifully before layering it in the baking dish.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Zucchini Lasagna

4 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise
1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Make sure to salt the zucchini to remove excess moisture before layering!

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin strips. Sprinkle with salt and place in a colander to drain for about 20 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels.

Cook the Meat Sauce

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add the ground beef, cook until browned. Pour in the marinara sauce, season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.

Mix Ricotta Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and set aside.

Assemble the Lasagna

In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of zucchini slices, a layer of the ricotta mixture, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of meat sauce on top and sprinkle with Parmesan.

Bake the Lasagna

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top. Bake for another 15 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy zucchini lasagna!

Pro Tips

For a deeper flavor, add sautéed onions and bell peppers to the meat sauce. Also, let the lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting for cleaner slices.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To best reheat, place the lasagna on a baking sheet and cover with foil to retain moisture. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This keeps the zucchinis intact while preventing the cheese from drying out.

For longer storage, this zucchini lasagna can be frozen before baking. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover with foil, and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. The frozen layers often marry the flavors even more as they thaw.

Customization and Variations

Feel free to customize the fillings to suit your taste. Adding spinach, mushrooms, or even roasted red peppers can enhance the flavor profile and nutritional value. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with a combination of sautéed vegetables or lentils, and use plant-based cheese if you prefer dairy-free.

For a touch of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes in the meat sauce. Alternatively, consider adding fresh basil or oregano into the ricotta mixture for a burst of fresh herb flavor. Adjust the cheese ratios to fit your preference; for instance, if you really love cheesy dishes, increase the mozzarella for an extra gooey result.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based proteins can be used as alternatives.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese or a vegan ricotta made from cashews can work well too.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just increase the baking time slightly if it's cold from the fridge.