Description
Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara is a delicious, low-carb Italian-inspired vegetarian dish featuring tender zucchini slices layered with creamy ricotta cheese, savory marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella. This easy-to-make baked casserole offers a flavorful alternative to traditional lasagna, perfect as a comforting main course for 4 servings.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into ¼-inch thick planks
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Sauces and Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Cheese Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasonings
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly oil or spray a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Sear the Zucchini: Lightly brush both sides of the zucchini slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-sear the slices for 1–2 minutes per side until slightly tender. Set aside.
- Make the Ricotta Mixture: In a small bowl, combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Layer the Dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Start layering with zucchini slices, then spread a layer of the ricotta mixture, followed by a spoonful of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with marinara sauce and mozzarella on top.
- Bake: Bake the assembled dish uncovered for 20–25 minutes until it is bubbly and the cheese is golden.
- Broil for Browning: For a browned cheesy top, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- This dish can be prepared ahead and reheated for convenience.
- For a heartier version, add a layer of cooked ground turkey or sausage between the ricotta and zucchini layers.
- Use gluten-free marinara sauce to keep the recipe gluten-free.
- Searing zucchini slices helps remove excess moisture and adds flavor.
