Ingredients
– 4 large zucchini, thinly sliced lengthwise [provides a roasted vegetable layer that adds texture and reduces overall starch]
– Salt [seasons the zucchini, pasta water, and filling to taste]
– High quality extra virgin olive oil [for roasting zucchini and a touch in the filling for silkiness]
– 1 pound standard lasagna noodles [the base for rolling; standard noodles hold together best]
– 20 ounces ricotta cheese (part-skim or fat-free optional) [creamy binder for the filling and primary mild cheese flavor]
– 6 ounces goat cheese [adds a tangy note that balances the ricotta and tomato sauce]
– 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella, plus more for topping [melts to create that gooey lasagna experience]
– 1 bunch Italian parsley, leaves chopped [fresh herb for aroma and brightness in the filling]
– 8 garlic cloves, minced [gives savory depth and a classic Italian backbone]
– Ground black pepper [for seasoning and a little edge]
– Crushed red pepper flakes (optional) [adds heat if you like a spicy lift]
– 1 24-ounce jar tomato basil pasta sauce or homemade spaghetti sauce [the saucy base for baking and layering]
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese [salty finish for topping and a golden crust]
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish [bright finish and visual appeal]
Instructions
1-First Step: Mise en place and oven prep Preheat the oven to 450°F. Set out a large flat surface or tray lined with parchment paper for rolling the noodles. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil for the lasagna noodles. Gather all cheeses, herbs, garlic, and your 24-ounce jar of tomato basil pasta sauce.
2-Second Step: Roast the zucchini * Brush zucchini slices with extra virgin olive oil on both sides and season lightly with salt. * Arrange slices on baking sheets without overlapping so they roast evenly. * Bake at 450°F for 10-15 minutes until tender but not falling apart. Remove from oven and reduce oven temperature to 350°F. Let zucchini cool while you cook the noodles.
3-Third Step: Cook and cool the lasagna noodles Cook the 1 pound of standard lasagna noodles in the boiling salted water according to package instructions, about 12 minutes for most brands. Drain and immediately transfer noodles to a bowl of cold water to stop cooking. Drain again and lay noodles flat on the prepared parchment paper so they are easy to fill and roll.
4-Fourth Step: Make the cheese filling In a large mixing bowl, combine the following and mix until smooth and homogenous:
5-Fifth Step: Fill and roll Spread an even layer of the cheese filling over each noodle, about 1/4 to 1/3 cup per noodle depending on noodle length. Place a roasted zucchini slice on top of the filling, then roll the noodle tightly with the seam side down. Lay each roll seam side down on the parchment while you work. A tray can help keep them neat if you need to move them.
6-Sixth Step: Assemble in the baking dish Pour 2 1/4 cups of the pasta sauce and 1/2 cup water into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to provide moisture and prevent sticking. Arrange the rolls snugly seam side down in the dish. Pour the remaining 3/4 cup pasta sauce evenly over the top of the rolls. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup grated parmesan and additional shredded mozzarella to your liking for a bubbly top.
7-Final Step: Bake, rest, and serve Bake in the center of the oven at 350°F for 40 minutes. Check halfway through to ensure the bottom is not drying out; add up to 1/4 cup water if needed. When finished, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Last Step:
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🍽️ Prepare ahead by assembling without baking, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight
- Prep Time: undefined
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6 servings
- Calories: 661.2
- Sugar: 6.3 g
- Sodium: 506.3 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 16.8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 66.3 g
- Fiber: 3.8 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 89 mg
