Ingredients
– 4 large zucchinis
– 2 pounds of ground beef
– 24 ounces of pasta sauce
– 15 ounces of ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
– 1Β½ cups shredded mozzarella
– 1 egg
– Salt
– Pepper
– A small handful of chopped fresh parsley
– A small handful of chopped fresh basil
Instructions
1-Preheat the oven to 400Β°F. This higher temp crisps the top and improves texture.
2-Slice the zucchinis lengthwise into thin slices. Use a mandoline for even thickness. To cut moisture, salt slices and let sit 15 minutes, then blot dry. Or grill 1-2 minutes per side.
3-Brown the ground beef in a large pan over medium heat. Drain fat, then stir in 24 ounces pasta sauce, reserving Β½ cup.
4-Prepare the ricotta mixture: Mix 15 ounces ricotta, 1 cup shredded Parmesan, 1 egg, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5-Layer in a 9×13-inch casserole dish: Spread Β½ cup reserved pasta sauce. Add zucchini slices, half the meat sauce, half the ricotta mixture. Sprinkle ΒΎ cup mozzarella, parsley, and basil. Repeat layers. Top with zucchini slices, remaining parsley, basil, and ΒΎ cup mozzarella.
6-Bake for 40-45 minutes until bubbly. Broil a few minutes for golden top.
7-Rest and garnish: Cool 10 minutes. Garnish with whole basil leaves. Slice and serve.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
π§ To reduce zucchini moisture, slice thinly and salt, letting sit for 15 minutes before blotting dry
πͺ Use a mandoline slicer for consistent zucchini thickness and even cooking
β° Pre-baking zucchini slices for 1-2 minutes per side further reduces moisture for a firmer texture
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten-free, Vegetarian adaptable
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 362
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 603mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 104mg
