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Spicy Zucchini Ricotta Lasagna: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish


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  • Author: Stacy
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

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:
    • 34 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

  1. Slice zucchini into 1/8-inch thick pieces using a mandoline or sharp knife.
  2. Lay slices flat on a clean kitchen towel and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 15 minutes to draw out moisture.
  3. Pat dry with another towel to prevent watery lasagna.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Vegetables

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chicken sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in red bell pepper, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Pour in marinara sauce, stir to combine, and remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

  1. In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese, shredded provolone, and egg until smooth. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Spread ½ cup marinara mixture on the bottom of the dish.
  3. Layer zucchini slices to cover the bottom.
  4. Add ½ cup ricotta mixture, spreading evenly.
  5. Sprinkle ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
  6. Repeat layers (zucchini, ricotta, marinara, mozzarella) until ingredients are used, ending with mozzarella on top.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna

  1. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  2. Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 30 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add Panko breadcrumbs and fresh oregano. Cook for 4 minutes, stirring, until golden.
  3. Season with a pinch of salt.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

  1. Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes.
  2. 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