Zucchini Ricotta Marinara Melts Recipe

Introduction

Zucchini Ricotta Marinara Melts are a simple, comforting dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Layers of tender zucchini, creamy ricotta, and tangy marinara sauce come together under melted mozzarella for a delicious bite every time.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise
• Fresh basil, for garnish
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: Arrange half of the zucchini slices in a single layer in the prepared dish.
3. Step 3: Spread half of the ricotta cheese evenly over the zucchini slices.
4. Step 4: Spoon half of the marinara sauce on top of the ricotta layer.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara sauce.
6. Step 6: Repeat the layering process with the remaining zucchini, ricotta, marinara, and mozzarella.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle dried oregano evenly over the top layer.
8. Step 8: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
9. Step 9: Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier melt and richer flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach between layers for extra veggies.
• Gluten-free marinara works well to keep this dish gluten-free.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave in short intervals to avoid sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.

Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh zucchini as frozen zucchini tends to release excess water and can make the dish watery.

Zucchini Ricotta Marinara Melts Recipe

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5 from 117 reviews

Delight in these Zucchini Ricotta Marinara Melts, a comforting baked dish that combines tender zucchini slices layered with creamy ricotta, tangy marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, all seasoned with dried oregano and garnished with fresh basil for a fragrant finish. Perfect as a light lunch, dinner, or appetizer.

• Author: nova
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 2 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise

Dairy

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Other

• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking your dish.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
3. Assemble First Layer: Arrange half of the zucchini slices in a single even layer at the bottom of the baking dish.
4. Add Ricotta and Marinara: Evenly spread half of the ricotta cheese over the zucchini slices, then spoon half of the marinara sauce on top, covering the ricotta.
5. Sprinkle Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the marinara layer.
6. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining zucchini slices, ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese to create two layers.
7. Add Seasoning: Sprinkle the teaspoon of dried oregano evenly over the top mozzarella layer to enhance flavor.
8. Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve warm for the best flavor experience.

Notes

• You can substitute the marinara sauce with your favorite tomato sauce or homemade version for different flavors.
• For a gluten-free version, ensure the marinara sauce does not contain any gluten additives.
• Use firm zucchini to achieve the best texture that holds layers well during baking.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven for best results.
• Feel free to add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Keywords: Zucchini ricotta bake, vegetarian baked zucchini, marinara melts, cheesy zucchini dish, Italian vegetarian recipe