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Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara

These layered zucchini ricotta melts are a delicious, low-carb alternative to lasagna, featuring roasted zucchini slices layered with a creamy ricotta mixture and marinara sauce, then topped with melted mozzarella cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Place zucchini rounds on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and arrange in a single layer.
  3. Roast zucchini for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and lightly browned. Remove from oven and reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
  4. In a medium bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
  5. In an 8×8 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
  6. Arrange half of the roasted zucchini slices in a single layer over the sauce.
  7. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the zucchini layer.
  8. Top the ricotta layer with the remaining zucchini slices.
  9. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, spreading evenly.
  10. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara.
  11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  12. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

For a crispier top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. You can use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella for a lighter version. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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