Zucchini Lasagna With Meat Sauce

Name: Zucchini Lasagna With Meat Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef or turkey; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg

Highlighted under: Traditional Comfort Food Recipes

Whenever I'm in the mood for comfort food, I turn to this Zucchini Lasagna with Meat Sauce. I love how it combines fresh zucchini slices with a hearty meat sauce and creamy ricotta. This is not just another lasagna recipe; it's a wonderful, guilt-free alternative that still gives me the satisfaction of the classic. Plus, the layers of flavors come together beautifully, making it a family favorite. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck, this dish never disappoints!

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:24:37.405Z

When I first tried Zucchini Lasagna, I was skeptical about substituting pasta with vegetables. However, after experimenting with various techniques, I've perfected this version with a rich meat sauce that truly satisfies. I found that salting the zucchini before layering removes excess moisture, keeping my lasagna from becoming soggy. It's a game changer!

One thing that makes this recipe special is the use of fresh herbs. The aroma of basil and oregano mingling with the simmering sauce elevates the entire dish, making it feel gourmet. Even with a lower carb count, my family devours every layer. It’s a win-win!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor
Rich, savory meat sauce paired with fresh zucchini
Layers of creamy cheese for the ultimate comfort food

Mastering Zucchini Slices

The key to perfect zucchini slices lies in how you prepare them. When you sprinkle the sliced zucchini with salt and let it sit for about 15 minutes, you're not just seasoning; you're also removing excess moisture. This step is crucial as it prevents a watery lasagna, ensuring that the layers maintain a satisfying texture. Once they've had time to sweat, pat them dry gently with paper towels before layering them in. This tip can make all the difference in achieving that ideal consistency in your dish.

If you're looking for a way to optimize your time, consider preparing the zucchini in advance. You can slice and salt them a few hours earlier, storing them in the fridge wrapped in paper towels. Just remember to pat them dry again before you assemble your lasagna. This little bit of prep can streamline your cooking process, making it easier to throw together this comforting meal on a busy weeknight.

A Flavorful Meat Sauce

The meat sauce in this lasagna is where you can really boost flavors. Browning the ground meat is essential; aim for a nice sear until it’s golden brown, as this will enhance the meat's depth. When you add onions and garlic, let them cook until they are translucent—about 5 minutes—allowing their natural sugars to caramelize. This step creates a flavorful base for your sauce that pairs impeccably with the zesty crushed tomatoes and herbs.

To achieve the right balance in taste, feel free to adjust the herbs to your liking. For a spicier kick, you could add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the meat. Alternatively, if you are experimenting with ingredients, consider substituting ground turkey with ground chicken or even a meat alternative for a vegetarian version. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor profile may vary slightly, so season accordingly.

Layering for Success

When layering your lasagna, the order matters. Start with a layer of meat sauce at the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking. Then follow with zucchini slices, cheese filling, and mozzarella. The strategic layering not only supports better structural integrity but also enhances the flavor throughout the dish. Repeat these layers, finishing with a generous topping of meat sauce and mozzarella to create a beautifully bubbly crust after baking.

To make serving easier, let your lasagna sit for about 10-15 minutes after taking it out from the oven. This resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut clean slices. I’ve found that during this time, the flavors meld beautifully. If you’re planning to serve this for a gathering, consider serving it alongside a mixed green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a hearty and delicious Zucchini Lasagna with Meat Sauce:

For the Meat Sauce

1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Zucchini Layers

3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
1 tsp salt
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg

Make sure to prepare the ingredients and organize them for easy layering!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Zucchini Lasagna:

Prepare the Zucchini

Slice the zucchinis thinly and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 15 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat them dry with paper towels.

Cook the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes.

Mix the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.

Layer the Lasagna

In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of zucchini slices, cheese filling, and mozzarella. Repeat the layers until ingredients are used, finishing with meat sauce and mozzarella on top.

Bake the Lasagna

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

To enhance the meat sauce, add a splash of red wine while it simmers. This adds depth and richness to the flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Zucchini Lasagna is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can assemble it a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This is particularly helpful for busy days or when hosting guests. If you're prepping further ahead, consider freezing it instead. Assemble the lasagna, then wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, simply bake from frozen, adding 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.

When storing leftover lasagna, be sure to cool it completely before covering it with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the microwave, or for a crispier texture, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, until heated through.

Flavor Variations to Try

One way to customize this Zucchini Lasagna is by experimenting with different types of cheese. Adding ricotta with herbs, like parsley or thyme, can provide a fresh twist. You may also try swapping some mozzarella for provolone or gouda for a richer flavor profile. Additionally, consider incorporating vegetables like spinach or mushrooms into the layers for added nutrition and interesting textures.

If you’re a fan of spicy food, don’t hesitate to add diced jalapeños or substituting some of the meat with chorizo for a kick. For those following a low-carb or keto diet, pairing the zucchini with eggplant slices instead can create a delicious variation while still keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Eggplant or bell peppers can also be great alternatives for layering.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

→ What if I don't have ricotta cheese?

You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or a mix of cream cheese and sour cream.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the lasagna a day in advance and keep it in the fridge before baking.