This Double Cheese Lasagna Recipe Gets a Healthy Twist With Fresh Zucchini
Zucchini boasts a range of health benefits, including antioxidants and fiber
Lasagna, a classic Italian-American dish, combines layers of soft pasta, marinara sauce, savory meats and, of course, melted cheese. Its origins trace back to ancient Rome, where it was first made with layers of thin bread soaked in broth. Now, lasagna has revolved into a hearty and satisfying dish found on many dinner tables and special occasion buffets. This dish has many variations, but we highly recommend this double cheese lasagna recipe with zucchini. Trust us, the fresh zucchini pairs wonderfully with gooey parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
Zucchini, a summer squash, adds subtle sweetness and vibrant color to this double cheese lasagna recipe. But it also provides a lot of health benefits. Rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants and fiber, zucchini promotes overall well-being and supports a healthy immune system. Comment below some of your favorite ways to eat zucchini! And if you want some new ideas, try these 6 Low-Carb Zucchini Recipes and Zucchini Ribbon Pasta with Bacon.
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Ingredients
- 1 (24 oz.) jar tomato-and-basil pasta sauce
- 1 Tbs. olive oil
- 1 (10 oz.) zucchini, trimmed, cut into ⅓" dice
- 1 lb. ground beef
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil + additional for garnish
- ¼ tsp. salt
- ¼ tsp. pepper
- 9 oven-ready lasagna noodles
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 2 Tbs. grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Heat oven to 350°F. Spread ½ cup sauce in 2-qt. baking dish. In nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add zucchini; cook, stirring, until softened, 4–5 min. Remove. Add beef to skillet. Over medium-high heat, cook, stirring, until no longer pink, 8–10 min.; drain. Return to skillet; add ¼ cup basil, salt, pepper, zucchini and remaining sauce; cook 2 min.
Place 3 noodles in baking dish, breaking to fit as needed. Top with half of beef mixture and 3 noodles. Repeat layering once. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan, covering noodles completely. Tear off large sheet foil; coat one side with cooking spray. Place coated side down over baking dish. Bake until heated through and noodles are tender, about 25 min. Broil 2 min. Let sit 15 min. If desired, garnish with additional basil.
Nutrition
- Calories: 430
- Fat: 15 gram
- Saturated Fat: 5 gram
- Protein: 28 gram
- Carbohydrate: 46 gram
- Fiber: 0 gram
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
- Sugar: 13 gram
- Sodium: 710 mg
