Ingredients

For the Cheese Filling:

• 1 pound ricotta cheese
• ½ cup packed grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
• 1 ½ cups grated mozzarella cheese
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons minced Italian parsley

For the Bolognese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 12 ounces Italian turkey sausage, casings removed
• ½ large yellow onion, diced
• 1 (24 ounce) jar prepared marinara sauce
• ½ cup water
• ¼ cup cream

For the Zucchini Rolls:

• 8 large green zucchinis
• 1 rounded tablespoon kosher salt
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
• ½ cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Steps to Make It

Preparation:

1. Prepare the Zucchini:
   Begin by trimming the ends of the zucchinis and then slice them lengthwise into thin strips, about ¼-inch thick. You can use a mandolin slicer for uniform slices. Sprinkle the zucchini slices with kosher salt and set them aside in a colander to release excess moisture. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes, then gently pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Cheese Filling:
   In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmigiano Reggiano, grated mozzarella, egg, black pepper, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, and minced parsley. Stir until everything is well incorporated and smooth. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Bolognese Sauce:
   Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Sauté until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the marinara sauce, water, and cream, and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
4. Assemble the Zucchini Rolls:
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, lay out the zucchini slices. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil on both sides. Then, spread about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture onto each zucchini slice. Carefully roll up each zucchini slice, securing the cheese filling inside. Repeat with the remaining zucchini slices.
5. Bake the Zucchini Rolls:
   Place the zucchini rolls in a large baking dish, side by side. Pour the Bolognese sauce over the top of the rolls, covering them generously. Sprinkle the grated Parmigiano Reggiano and mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Serve:
   Once the rolls are baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with extra parsley or basil, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious and healthy twist on classic lasagna!

Prep Time:

25 minutes

Cooking Time:

40 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour 5 minutes

Servings:

Serves 4-6

Calories Per Serving:

Approximately 350-400 kcal per serving (depending on portion size and cheese used)

Why This Recipe is Timeless

This Zucchini Lasagna Rolls with Bolognese and Cheese Filling is a perfect example of how classic dishes can be reimagined to suit modern tastes and dietary preferences. It maintains the rich flavors of a traditional lasagna, with its combination of cheese and meat sauce, while using zucchini to lighten the dish and add a fresh element. The zucchini itself is a versatile vegetable that can take on any flavor, and in this case, it acts as a sturdy yet tender vessel for the creamy cheese filling.

What makes this dish truly timeless is its ability to adapt to a wide variety of preferences and needs. It can be enjoyed by those looking to reduce carbs, those following a gluten-free diet, or anyone seeking a lighter version of a beloved comfort food. Furthermore, the recipe is highly customizable: you can swap out the turkey sausage for a plant-based protein, or use a variety of cheeses to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for a family, hosting a gathering, or preparing a meal for yourself, this dish fits seamlessly into any occasion.

The layers of flavor—from the rich Bolognese sauce to the creamy cheese filling and tender zucchini—make each bite a delight. It’s a balanced dish that offers both nutritional value and comfort, making it a recipe worth returning to time and time again. The use of fresh herbs and simple ingredients ensures that it’s both accessible and versatile, allowing for endless variations without compromising on taste.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Sodium: 550 mg
• Fiber: 4 g

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! You can swap the turkey sausage for ground chicken, beef, or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version. Adjust cooking times as needed based on your protein choice.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the zucchini rolls and the sauce a day in advance. Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

3. Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To cook, bake from frozen, increasing the baking time as needed.

Tips for Success

1. Dry the zucchini well: Salting the zucchini and letting it rest helps draw out moisture, preventing the rolls from becoming soggy during baking. Be sure to pat them dry before assembling.
2. Don’t overfill the rolls: A little bit of cheese mixture goes a long way. Avoid overstuffing the rolls to ensure they hold together and bake evenly.
3. Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds a burst of flavor to the cheese mixture and acts as a beautiful garnish. You can also experiment with basil or thyme.
4. Make the sauce your own: If you want to add more vegetables, feel free to stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the Bolognese sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the assembled rolls in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before baking.

Conclusion

Zucchini Lasagna Rolls with Bolognese and Cheese Filling is a perfect example of how creative cooking can bring new life to classic dishes. By swapping out traditional pasta for zucchini, this recipe provides a lighter yet equally satisfying alternative that still delivers on taste and comfort. The tender zucchini rolls, creamy cheese filling, and hearty Bolognese sauce create a dish that is as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether you are cooking for a family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.

With its simple ingredients, versatile flavors, and easy preparation, this dish has the potential to become a new family favorite. It’s not just about reducing carbs or following trends—it’s about creating a meal that celebrates flavor, freshness, and creativity. Try it today and enjoy a healthy, hearty twist on one of the most beloved Italian dishes of all time.