This Easy Healthy Zucchini Lasagna is packed with fresh flavors and layers of tasty goodness! It uses zucchini slices instead of noodles, making it lighter and more veggie-filled.
Honestly, I’ve never met a lasagna I didn’t love. But this one feels like a hug from your veggies! 
You can load it with cheese, and it’s super simple to whip up for dinner.
I love how easy it is to prepare. Just slice the zucchini, layer it up with cheese and sauce, and bake it until bubbly. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: The star of this recipe! Use fresh, medium-sized zucchinis. If you can’t find zucchini, summer squash works too. Just remember, they should be firm and not too watery.
Ground Turkey/Chicken: This makes the dish hearty. If you want a vegetarian option, substitute with sautéed mushrooms or cooked lentils. They add great texture and flavor!
Ricotta Cheese: A creamy filling that’s essential to this recipe. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use low-fat ricotta or cottage cheese. For a dairy-free alternative, try tofu blended with a bit of nutritional yeast.
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite brand, or make your own if you have time. It adds a crucial layer of flavor. A homemade sauce can be fresh with herbs and spices!
How Do You Remove Excess Moisture from Zucchini?
Using zucchini instead of pasta means moisture control is key. If the zucchini is too watery, the lasagna can become soggy. Here’s how to prepare it:
- Slice the zucchinis thinly lengthwise, about 1/8-inch thick.
- Lay the slices on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt. This helps draw out moisture.
- Let them sit for about 10 minutes, then pat them dry with additional paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Taking this step will keep your lasagna from getting too watery and help enhance the flavors! Trust me, it’s worth the few extra minutes of prep time.
Easy Healthy Zucchini Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into 1/8-inch thick strips
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey or chicken (optional; for vegetarian, substitute with sautéed mushrooms or lentils)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, and then you’ll bake it for about 40-45 minutes. So, plan for approximately 1 hour to have this delicious lasagna ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.
2. Prepare the Zucchini Noodles:
Slice the zucchinis lengthwise to make 1/8-inch thick strips. To help get rid of excess moisture (which is key to avoid a watery lasagna), lay the slices on paper towels and sprinkle with a little salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat them dry with more paper towels.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
4. Cook the Meat (or Veggies):
Now, add the ground turkey (or your veggie choice) to the skillet. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil to taste.
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, just to blend the flavors together. Remove from heat when done.
6. Mix the Ricotta:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the egg, adding a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
7. Assemble the Lasagna:
Start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Next, lay zucchini slices on top, slightly overlapping them.
8. Add the Cheese:
Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the zucchini and spread it evenly. Follow with a layer of meat sauce, then sprinkle with ⅓ of the mozzarella cheese. Enjoy the deliciousness!
9. Repeat Layers:
Continue layering with the remaining zucchini, ricotta, meat sauce, and mozzarella. Finish the top with any leftover mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese for that cheesy, golden crust!
10. Bake:
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden brown.
11. Let It Rest:
Once out of the oven, let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes. This allows it to set a bit, making it easier to slice.
12. Serve:
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm. Enjoy every bite of this yummy and healthy zucchini lasagna!
This delightful recipe is perfect for a family dinner or as leftovers. Whether you’re a meat lover or a vegetarian, it’s sure to please!
FAQ for Easy Healthy Zucchini Lasagna
Can I Use Different Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Yes! While zucchini is the star of this dish, you can also use other vegetables like eggplant or summer squash. Just be sure to slice them thinly to keep the layers manageable and bake time consistent.
What Can I Use as a Ricotta Substitute?
If you’re looking for a ricotta alternative, cottage cheese works well for a similar texture. For a dairy-free option, try blending silken tofu with nutritional yeast and a splash of lemon juice. It’ll give you a creamy consistency without the dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Prep This Lasagna in Advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through properly!
