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The Best Zucchini Lasagna Recipe (NOT Watery!)

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This zucchini lasagna is a lighter twist on the classic dish, made with thin layers of zucchini, hearty beef sauce, and creamy cheeses. It holds together beautifully and is packed with flavor, without being watery. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large zucchinis

  • 2 pounds minced beef

  • 24 ounces tomato-based pasta sauce

  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese

  • 1 cup parmesan reggiano, shredded

  • 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese

  • 1 egg

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Small handful of fresh parsley and basil, chopped

Instructions

  • Wash and dry zucchinis, cut off ends, and slice lengthwise into 1/8-inch strips. Lay slices on paper towels, sprinkle with salt, and rest for 15–20 minutes. Pat dry to remove excess moisture.

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed. Stir in tomato-based pasta sauce and simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

  • In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, half the parmesan, salt, and pepper until smooth.

  • Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of beef sauce on the bottom. Add a layer of zucchini slices, slightly overlapping. Spread a layer of ricotta mixture, then sprinkle with mozzarella. Repeat layering (sauce, zucchini, ricotta, mozzarella) until all ingredients are used. Finish with beef sauce, mozzarella, and remaining parmesan on top.

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling.

  • Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and basil before serving.

Notes

  • Salting and blotting zucchini is the secret to avoiding a watery lasagna.

  • You can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.

  • For a vegetarian version, replace beef with sautéed vegetables or mushroom sauce.

  • Author: Layla
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes