Ingredients
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4 large zucchinis
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2 pounds minced beef
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24 ounces tomato-based pasta sauce
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15 ounces ricotta cheese
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1 cup parmesan reggiano, shredded
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1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese
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1 egg
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Small handful of fresh parsley and basil, chopped
Instructions
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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.
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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.
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In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, half the parmesan, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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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.
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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.
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Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and basil before serving.
Notes
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Salting and blotting zucchini is the secret to avoiding a watery lasagna.
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You can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
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For a vegetarian version, replace beef with sautéed vegetables or mushroom sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes