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Cheesy zucchini lasagna roll-ups served with marinara sauce
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Cheesy Zucchini Lasagna Roll-Ups with Marinara

A delightful, healthier twist on traditional lasagna featuring zucchini ribbons, creamy ricotta, and rich marinara sauce, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Cheesy Roll-Ups, Healthy Lasagna, Zucchini Lasagna
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 275kcal

Ingredients

Zucchini Preparation

  • 3 large large zucchinis Sliced lengthwise into ribbon-like strips
  • Salt For sweating the zucchini
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil For brushing on the zucchini

Filling

  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese Forms a luscious filling
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced for flavor
  • Salt & black pepper To taste for seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano Complementary herb for flavor
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan Adds depth to the filling
  • 1 large egg Optional, for binding
  • 1 cup cooked ground beef, turkey, or plant-based meat Optional, for extra protein

Assembly

  • 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce Rich and tangy sauce for the base and topping
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese For topping
  • Fresh basil or parsley For garnish

Instructions

Zucchini Preparation

  • Slice the zucchinis lengthwise into thin ribbons using a mandoline or sharp knife.
  • Lay the slices on paper towels, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 15–20 minutes to draw out moisture.
  • Pat the slices dry with paper towels.

Make the Filling

  • In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, grated parmesan, and egg (if using).
  • Mix until creamy and well combined. Fold in cooked ground meat if desired.

Assemble the Roll-Ups

  • Spread a spoonful of the ricotta filling onto each zucchini slice and roll it up, placing seam-side down in a greased baking dish with marinara sauce at the bottom.

Top & Bake

  • Cover the roll-ups with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
  • Cover with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
  • Uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish & Serve

  • Let cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

For a firmer zucchini, grill slices lightly before wrapping. Experiment with different cheeses or add vegetables for variations.