Description
Elevate your dinner menu with this Spicy Zucchini Ricotta Lasagna, a low-carb twist on a classic Italian favorite. Layers of zucchini, creamy ricotta, spicy marinara, and melty mozzarella are topped with crispy breadcrumbs for a dish that’s bold, comforting, and irresistible.
Ingredients
- For the Zucchini:
- 3–4 medium zucchinis, sliced 1/8 inch thick
- Kosher salt (to draw out moisture)
- For the Filling:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 pound ground Italian chicken sausage
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- Red pepper flakes (to taste)
- Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 32 ounces marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- For the Ricotta Layer:
- 1 ½ cups whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1 large egg
- For the Topping:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
- Slice zucchini into 1/8-inch thick pieces using a mandoline or sharp knife.
- Lay slices flat on a clean kitchen towel and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 15 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Pat dry with another towel to prevent watery lasagna.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Vegetables
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in red bell pepper, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in marinara sauce, stir to combine, and remove from heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
- In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese, shredded provolone, and egg until smooth. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread ½ cup marinara mixture on the bottom of the dish.
- Layer zucchini slices to cover the bottom.
- Add ½ cup ricotta mixture, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layers (zucchini, ricotta, marinara, mozzarella) until ingredients are used, ending with mozzarella on top.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 30 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 6: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add Panko breadcrumbs and fresh oregano. Cook for 4 minutes, stirring, until golden.
- Season with a pinch of salt.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes.
- Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs and fresh basil leaves on top. Serve warm.
Notes
- Avoid Watery Lasagna: Drawing out moisture from zucchini is essential for a firm texture.
- Cheese Substitutions: Swap provolone for Parmesan or mozzarella for Monterey Jack if preferred.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
- Freezer-Friendly: Assemble but don’t bake. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian