Cheesy Spinach Zucchini Lasagna

Cheesy Spinach Zucchini Lasagna is a comforting, veggie-packed twist on a classic baked pasta dish. Layers of tender noodles, creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and thinly sliced zucchini come together with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella for a satisfying meal that feels hearty yet balanced. The zucchini adds a light, fresh texture while blending beautifully with the creamy cheese filling and savory herbs.

This lasagna is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or special gatherings when you want something cozy and homemade. It is easy to assemble and can be customized with regular or no-boil noodles, low-fat cheese options, or additional vegetables. The combination of garlic, basil, oregano, and parsley gives the dish an aromatic Italian-inspired flavor that pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread.

Even if you are new to making lasagna, this recipe keeps the steps straightforward and beginner-friendly. Once baked, the layers hold together beautifully, creating slices that are cheesy, saucy, and loaded with flavor in every bite.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
Resting Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 slices

Ingredients

Main Components

Zucchini: 2 medium, sliced into thin rounds

Spinach: 2 cups fresh, chopped

Lasagna Noodles: 1 lb (regular or no-boil)

Marinara Sauce: 4 cups (low-sodium preferred)

Cheese Mixture

Ricotta Cheese: 2 cups (or low-fat cottage cheese)

Mozzarella Cheese: 1½ cups shredded, divided

Parmesan Cheese: 3 tbsp grated

Egg: 1 large

Seasonings and Herbs

Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped

Dried Basil: 1 tsp (or 1 tbsp fresh)

Dried Oregano: 1 tsp (or 1 tbsp fresh)

Garlic Powder: 1 tsp

Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

If using regular noodles, cook according to package directions and drain well.

Lightly sauté spinach in a pan for 1–2 minutes until wilted, then cool slightly.

In a large bowl, combine ricotta, egg, half the mozzarella, parmesan, parsley, basil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Stir in the cooked spinach until evenly mixed.

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.

Arrange a layer of noodles, followed by cheese mixture, zucchini slices, and marinara sauce.

Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and remaining mozzarella on top.

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake another 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Let lasagna rest 10 minutes before slicing to help layers set.

Tips

Slice zucchini thinly so it cooks evenly and blends into layers.

Pat zucchini dry to reduce excess moisture.

Use no-boil noodles to save prep time.

Season each layer lightly for balanced flavor.

Let spinach cool before mixing to prevent watery filling.

Cover with foil during first bake to keep cheese from burning.

Rest lasagna before slicing for cleaner portions.

Add extra marinara if you like a saucier texture.

Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.

Prepare ahead and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.

Variations

Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.

Include ground turkey or beef for a meat version.

Make gluten-free using gluten-free lasagna noodles.

Add roasted bell peppers for sweetness and color.

Replace ricotta with blended cottage cheese for lighter texture.

Use whole wheat noodles for extra fiber.

Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Create a white sauce version using béchamel instead of marinara.

Make mini individual lasagnas in ramekins.

Substitute kale for spinach for a hearty green option.

Q&A

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze baked or unbaked for up to 2 months.

Do I need to peel zucchini?
No, the skin adds texture and nutrients.

How do I prevent watery lasagna?
Pat zucchini dry and avoid overly watery sauce.

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw and squeeze out excess moisture first.

What cheese melts best on top?
Mozzarella gives a stretchy, golden finish.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Bake covered at 180°C until heated through.

Can I make it egg-free?
Yes, omit egg and add extra cheese for binding.

What sides go well?
Garlic bread, green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Can I reduce calories?
Use low-fat ricotta and reduced-fat mozzarella.

Nutrition

(Approximate per Serving)

Calories: 360
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 520mg

Conclusion

Cheesy Spinach Zucchini Lasagna is a flavorful, comforting dish that blends classic Italian-inspired layers with wholesome vegetables and creamy cheese. The combination of tender noodles, fresh spinach, and delicate zucchini slices creates a balanced texture that feels hearty without being overly heavy. Easy to assemble and endlessly customizable, it works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or gatherings with friends and family.

This recipe offers flexibility for different dietary preferences and allows you to experiment with additional vegetables, lean proteins, or lighter cheese options. The aromatic herbs and rich marinara sauce tie everything together, creating a satisfying meal that is both nourishing and comforting. Serve it warm with a crisp salad or simple side dish, and enjoy a homemade lasagna that is packed with flavor, color, and wholesome goodness in every slice.