🍆 Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara

This looks like a delicious, low-carb twist on a classic lasagna! These Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts make for a perfect comforting dinner or a hearty appetizer.

Here is the complete recipe to bring it all together:

🍆 Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara

Prep time: 20 minutes | Bake time: 25-30 minutes | Servings: 2-4

Ingredients

For the Base Layers:

• 2 large zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into $\frac{1}{4}$-inch thick planks
• 1 cup marinara sauce (your favorite store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese

For the Flavor Boosters & Toppings:

• 1 large egg (helps bind the ricotta so it doesn’t run)
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded (for that perfect melted top)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano and basil)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Zucchini (Crucial Step!)

Zucchini holds a lot of water. To prevent a soggy dish, line up your zucchini slices on paper towels. Sprinkle them lightly with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes. Blot the excess moisture off the top with another paper towel.

💡 Optional: For extra flavor and structure, you can quickly grill or pan-sear the zucchini slices for 1-2 minutes per side before assembling.

2. Mix the Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.

3. Assemble the Melts

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

• First layer: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the dish.
• Second layer: Place a layer of zucchini slices side-by-side.
• Third layer: Spread a generous layer of the ricotta mixture over the zucchini.
• Fourth layer: Spoon more marinara sauce over the cheese.
• Repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a final layer of zucchini topped with marinara sauce.

4. Bake to Perfection

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the very top. Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.

5. Serve

Let it cool for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a pinch of black pepper right before slicing and serving!