Low-Carb Zucchini Lasagna

Quick Description

A hearty, cheesy, comfort-food classic made lighter by swapping pasta for fresh zucchini slices. Perfect for low-carb, keto, or high-protein lifestyles.

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Servings & Timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Bake Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour

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Ingredients

Zucchini Layer

• 3–4 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise (¼-inch thick)
• ½ tsp salt (for sweating zucchini)

Meat Sauce

• 1 lb ground beef (85–90% lean)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups marinara sauce (low sugar if keto)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Cheese Layer

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Zucchini

1. Slice zucchini lengthwise.
2. Lay slices on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt.
3. Let sit 15–20 minutes to draw out moisture.
4. Pat dry with paper towels.
   (Optional: Lightly grill or roast zucchini for 8–10 minutes to remove extra water.)

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2️⃣ Make the Meat Sauce

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook 2–3 minutes.
3. Stir in marinara, seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat.

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3️⃣ Mix the Cheese Layer

In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan, and parsley.

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4️⃣ Assemble

In a greased 9×13 baking dish:

1. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on bottom.
2. Add a layer of zucchini slices.
3. Spread ricotta mixture.
4. Add meat sauce.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella.

Repeat layers until ingredients are used. Finish with mozzarella on top.

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5️⃣ Bake

• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes.
• Broil 2–3 minutes at the end for golden bubbly cheese.
• Let rest 10–15 minutes before slicing.

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Storage

• Refrigerate up to 4 days
• Freezes well up to 2 months
• Reheat in oven or microwave

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Optional Variations

• Add spinach between layers
• Use ground turkey instead of beef
• Add cottage cheese for extra protein
• Make spicy with red pepper flakes

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Approximate Macros (per serving, 8 servings)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: ~28g
• Carbs: ~8–10g
• Fat: ~20g