Name: Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup marinara sauce; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ tsp dried oregano; Fresh basil for garnish; Optional: Red pepper flakes (for added spice)

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Introduction

These Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara offer a delicious, light twist on traditional baked dishes. Combining tender zucchini with creamy ricotta, savory marinara, and melted mozzarella, this recipe is perfect for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

This is a close-up view of a small stack of baked zucchini lasagna on a round white plate. Each stack has four visible layers: a thick dark green zucchini slice at the bottom, followed by a white creamy cheese layer, then another slice of dark green zucchini, and topped with melted golden-brown cheese with some herbs sprinkled on top. The stack sits in a pool of chunky red tomato sauce that slightly spills over the zucchini edges. Tiny fresh green herb sprigs are placed on top for garnish. The background surface is a white marbled texture, and the photo is captured with soft natural light highlighting the textures and colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup marinara sauce
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ tsp dried oregano
Fresh basil for garnish
1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: Red pepper flakes (for added spice)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Slice the zucchinis lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices. Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish. Layer half of the zucchini slices in the dish.
Step 4: Spread half of the ricotta cheese evenly over the zucchini layers.
Step 5: Top the ricotta with half of the marinara sauce, then sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over it.
Step 6: Repeat the layers with the remaining zucchini, ricotta, marinara, and mozzarella cheese.
Step 7: Sprinkle dried oregano over the top layer.
Step 8: Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 9: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Tips & Variations

For added spice, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the layers before baking.
Try using part-skim ricotta for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.
Adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before baking can boost flavor and create a golden crust.
If zucchini slices are very watery, pat them dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture crisp and creamy.

How to Serve

The dish shows three small layered stacks in a dark round dish, each stack has four main layers: the bottom layer is thick and rich bright red tomato sauce, the second layer is a thick, creamy white cheese spread, the third and first layers are thick zucchini rounds with green skin and pale inside, topped with melted golden brown cheese that is slightly crispy and sprinkled with dried herbs and fresh green thyme. The tomato sauce slightly spreads out from the base of the stacks on the dish. The whole presentation sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can substitute ricotta and mozzarella with vegan cheese alternatives and use a plant-based marinara sauce to make this dish vegan-friendly.

Is it necessary to slice the zucchini lengthwise?

Yes, slicing zucchini lengthwise into 1/4-inch slices helps the layers build evenly and ensures each bite has a good balance of zucchini and cheese. However, you can also slice them into rounds if preferred, adjusting the layering accordingly.