Zucchini Lasagna Bolognese with Spicy Basil Bread Crumbs
This Zucchini Lasagna Bolognese is a low-carb, high-protein alternative to traditional lasagna. Instead of pasta, thin zucchini slices are layered with a rich and savory Bolognese sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella. To add a crunchy contrast, the dish is finished with crispy, spicy basil bread crumbs. This dish is perfect for those looking for a healthier yet satisfying Italian-inspired meal!
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Medium
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Lasagna:
3 large zucchini, sliced lengthwise into ⅛-inch thick strips
1 tsp salt (for sweating the zucchini)
2 tbsp olive oil
For the Bolognese Sauce:
1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small carrot, grated
1 small celery stalk, finely chopped
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp tomato paste
½ cup beef broth (or red wine for extra depth)
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Cheese Layer:
1 cup ricotta cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 tsp dried basil
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For the Spicy Basil Bread Crumbs:
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tbsp olive oil
¼ tsp red pepper flakes
¼ cup fresh basil, finely chopped
¼ tsp garlic powder
Salt to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini (15 minutes)
1. Lay zucchini slices on a baking sheet and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
2. Pat dry with a paper towel. This step prevents a watery lasagna.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Make the Bolognese Sauce (20 minutes)
4. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, saute for 5 minutes until softened.
6. Add ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned (about 5 minutes).
7. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, beef broth (or wine), oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
8. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Layer (5 minutes)
9. In a bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, egg, dried basil, and a pinch of salt.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna (5 minutes)
10. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of Bolognese sauce on the bottom.
11. Add a layer of zucchini slices, slightly overlapping.
12. Spread ½ of the ricotta mixture over the zucchini.
13. Add ½ of the remaining Bolognese sauce.
14. Repeat the layers once more.
15. Sprinkle the top with mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake (30 minutes)
16. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
17. Remove foil and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Make the Spicy Basil Bread Crumbs (5 minutes)
18. While lasagna bakes, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
19. Add panko breadcrumbs, red pepper flakes, basil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
20. Toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and crisp.
Step 7: Serve & Garnish
21. Let the lasagna rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
22. Sprinkle with the spicy basil bread crumbs for extra crunch.
23. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Notes & Tips
Prevent a Watery Lasagna: Zucchini releases a lot of moisture. Sweating it with salt and patting it dry is key.
Make it Lighter: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat.
More Flavor: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the Bolognese for depth.
Extra Crunch: Double the breadcrumb topping for more texture.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Common Questions & Answers
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A:Yes! Assemble the lasagna and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready, adding 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A:Yes! Cottage cheese can replace ricotta, and Gruyere or provolone can substitute mozzarella.
Q: How do I keep zucchini from being soggy?
A:Salt the zucchini and let it sweat, pat it dry, and bake uncovered for the last few minutes.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A:Yes! Substitute the ground beef with mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based alternative.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 380
Protein: 27g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 600mg
This Zucchini Lasagna Bolognese with Spicy Basil Bread Crumbs is a delicious, wholesome twist on classic lasagna, combining rich flavors with a satisfying crunch. Enjoy!