Description
These Beef & Zucchini Lasagna Roll Ups are a delightful twist on a classic dish, blending hearty beef with fresh zucchini for a satisfying meal. Each bite is a perfect harmony of flavors, making it a family favorite that never fails to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced lengthwise (about 1/8 inch thick)
- Salt (for salting the zucchini)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by salting the zucchini slices. Lay them out on a clean kitchen towel and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This step prevents your roll-ups from becoming soggy.
- While the zucchini is resting, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning. You’ll know it’s ready when it releases a delightful aroma.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add in the ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon, cooking for about 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat to keep the filling lean.
- Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the ricotta and Parmesan cheeses until well combined. The mixture should be creamy and packed with flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will prevent the roll-ups from sticking.
- Begin assembling your roll-ups: Take one zucchini slice, add about 2-3 tablespoons of the beef filling at one end, and roll it up tightly. Place the roll-up seam side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining zucchini slices and filling.
- Once all roll-ups are in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, ensuring every roll is covered. Sprinkle with extra mozzarella cheese for a gooey topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbling and the top is nicely browned.
- Let the dish sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your deliciously cheesy and hearty roll-ups!
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll-up
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Don't skip salting the zucchini! This step is crucial to avoid excess moisture, which can turn your roll-ups soggy during baking. A light sprinkle of salt draws out water and enhances flavor.