Zucchini Lasagna
A delicious low-carb alternative to traditional lasagna that delivers all the comforting, cheesy goodness with a fraction of the carbs. Perfect for busy developers who want a satisfying, nutritious meal after a long day of coding.
Ingredients
- 2 large or 4 medium zucchini sliced lengthwise (about 1/8 inch thick)
- 24 oz pasta sauce low-sugar variety recommended
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef 85% lean works best
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese optional
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Slice zucchinis lengthwise into strips about 1/8 inch thick. If zucchini seems watery, lightly salt the slices and let sit on paper towels for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat dry.
- Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until no pink remains. Drain excess fat.
- Add pasta sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the meat. Simmer for about 10 minutes until flavors integrate and sauce reduces slightly.
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange zucchini slices in a single layer, slightly overlapping if necessary.
- If using ricotta, drop spoonfuls across the zucchini and gently spread it out.
- Add another layer of meat sauce, distributing evenly.
- Sprinkle a generous handful of mozzarella, followed by a light dusting of Parmesan.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan on top (typically about 3 complete layer cycles).
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Let rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Meal Prep: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with a sautéed mixture of mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach.
Cheese Alternatives: Try cottage cheese instead of ricotta for higher protein, or add crumbled feta for a Mediterranean twist.
Make Ahead: Assemble a day in advance and refrigerate unbaked. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
Prevent Wateriness: Salt the zucchini slices and let them rest on paper towels before assembling to draw out excess moisture.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
Meal Prep: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with a sautéed mixture of mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach.
Cheese Alternatives: Try cottage cheese instead of ricotta for higher protein, or add crumbled feta for a Mediterranean twist.
Make Ahead: Assemble a day in advance and refrigerate unbaked. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
Prevent Wateriness: Salt the zucchini slices and let them rest on paper towels before assembling to draw out excess moisture.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
