Description
A savory, low-carb dish with layers of zucchini slices, creamy ricotta cheese, and marinara sauce, baked to perfection and topped with melted mozzarella. A healthy and delicious alternative to traditional lasagna.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish (around 9×9-inch) with a little olive oil or cooking spray.
- Slice the zucchini into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Lay the zucchini slices on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Layer the zucchini slices over the sauce in a single layer, slightly overlapping each slice. Spread a portion of the ricotta mixture over the zucchini layer.
- Repeat the layers, alternating between zucchini slices, ricotta mixture, and marinara sauce until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce on top.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end to brown the cheese slightly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
Notes
- For a low-carb option, you can skip the mozzarella topping or use a dairy-free alternative.
- If you like a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
- You can also add a layer of sautéed spinach or mushrooms for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of casserole
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 60mg