There is something truly magical about the simplicity and comfort wrapped up in zucchini roll-ups, and this Easy Baked Zucchini Roll-Ups Recipe is my absolute favorite way to enjoy them. Picture thin, tender zucchini slices rolled lovingly around a dreamy ricotta and mozzarella filling, baked to bubbling perfection in a rich marinara sauce. Whether you’re seeking a healthy twist for a weeknight dinner or a cozy dish to share with friends, this recipe brings together fresh ingredients and Italian-inspired flavors in a way that feels both elegant and approachable. Once you try these roll-ups, they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient brings essential elements to the table. From the freshness of zucchini and the creamy cheese blend to the savory marinara that ties everything together, these few items create a harmonious symphony of textures and flavors.
- 2 large zucchini, thinly sliced lengthwise: The perfect canvas—thin slices soften while baking but still hold their shape to cradle the delicious filling.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creamy richness and a slightly sweet note that balances the marinara sauce perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, comforting texture inside and on top of the roll-ups.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty flavor that elevates the dish with depth.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder for the ricotta cheese mix, ensuring the filling holds together nicely.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: A vibrant, tangy base that keeps the roll-ups moist and bursting with classic Italian flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors without overpowering them.
- Olive oil, for drizzling: Adds a touch of richness and helps the top develop a slight golden crust during baking.
- Fresh basil, for garnish: Brightens the finished dish and adds that signature herbaceous kick that freshens every bite.
How to Make Easy Baked Zucchini Roll-Ups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Zucchini Slices
Start by washing and trimming the ends from two large zucchinis, then slice them thinly lengthwise into strips about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. This thickness allows the zucchini to be flexible enough to roll without breaking. Sprinkle the slices lightly with salt and let them sit for around 10 minutes. This resting time draws out excess moisture, preventing sogginess during baking. Be sure to pat the slices dry gently with paper towels before moving on to the next step.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, combine a cup of ricotta cheese, half a cup of grated Parmesan, one large egg, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy—the egg will help bind the ingredients while baking, creating a luscious filling with just the right consistency.
Step 3: Assemble the Roll-Ups
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread about half a cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom to create a flavorful base. Lay a strip of zucchini flat, spoon a tablespoon or two of the ricotta mixture near one end, and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Roll it up tightly, seam-side down, and arrange each roll-up snugly in the baking dish.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese Toppings
Once all the zucchini slices are rolled and placed, pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and additional Parmesan cheese across the surface, then drizzle a teaspoon of olive oil over everything. This finishing touch helps the cheese melt into a perfectly golden topping.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and turned golden, and you see the marinara bubbling around the edges. Let the roll-ups rest for 5 minutes after removing them from the oven. Finally, garnish with fresh basil leaves to add a pop of color and fresh aroma before serving warm.
How to Serve Easy Baked Zucchini Roll-Ups Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are a classic garnish that instantly lift the flavor profile and add a vibrant green contrast to the rich reds and creamy cheeses. For a little extra flair and texture, try sprinkling chopped toasted pine nuts or a dash of red pepper flakes. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan at the table never hurts either.
Side Dishes
These roll-ups shine as a main course but pair beautifully with light, complementary sides. A simple mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a fresh, crisp counterpoint while a warm garlic bread or crusty Italian loaf is perfect for mopping up the extra marinara sauce. For a heartier meal, roasted potatoes or a quinoa pilaf can balance out the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can turn a simple dish into an impressive feast. Arrange the zucchini roll-ups in a single layer on a rustic wooden board for a family-style meal or serve individual portions on colorful plates garnished with microgreens for a dinner party. You can even drizzle balsamic glaze in an artistic pattern around the plate for a gourmet touch that’s sure to wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover zucchini roll-ups store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld nicely after resting, so they often taste even better the next day. Just cover them well to prevent the zucchini from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these roll-ups at a later date, they freeze wonderfully. Freeze the assembled but unbaked roll-ups in a baking dish wrapped tightly in foil and plastic wrap for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake them straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftover or thawed roll-ups in an oven-safe dish and warm in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for 15–20 minutes until heated through and the cheese bubbles again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the texture is best preserved with gentle reheating in the oven.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses instead of ricotta and mozzarella?
Absolutely! While ricotta and mozzarella create the classic creamy and melty effect, you can experiment with cottage cheese or cream cheese for the filling and provolone or fontina for topping. Just keep in mind the texture and melting properties might vary slightly.
Do I need to salt the zucchini slices before rolling?
Yes, salting the zucchini helps to draw out excess moisture. This step is crucial because it prevents watery roll-ups and helps the zucchini maintain a tender but firm texture after baking.
Is this recipe suitable for keto or low-carb diets?
Definitely! Zucchini is a fantastic low-carb vegetable, and this recipe uses cheese and eggs that fit well within keto guidelines. Just be sure to choose a low-sugar marinara sauce or make your own to keep it keto-friendly.
Can I prepare the roll-ups ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups a few hours ahead and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just cover the dish tightly and keep it chilled. Bake just before serving for the best fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.
What if I don’t have fresh basil for garnish?
If fresh basil is unavailable, dried basil can work sprinkled on top after baking, though fresh herbs always add more vibrant flavor. Alternatively, fresh parsley or oregano make nice substitutes that complement the dish well.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Baked Zucchini Roll-Ups Recipe is a personal gem that invites you to enjoy wholesome, comforting flavors without fuss or stress. It’s a delightful way to highlight fresh vegetables and cheeses wrapped in a warm, cheesy embrace of marinara goodness. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, whether for a casual family dinner or impressing friends with something light yet satisfying. Once you make it, I guarantee it will become one of your go-to dishes, just like it is for me!
Print
Easy Baked Zucchini Roll-Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious low-carb zucchini roll-ups filled with a creamy ricotta and mozzarella mixture, baked in flavorful marinara sauce for a comforting and satisfying Italian-inspired vegetarian main course.
Ingredients
Zucchini
- 2 large zucchini, thinly sliced lengthwise
Cheese Filling
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Prepare Zucchini Slices: Trim the ends of the zucchini and slice each lengthwise into 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick slices. Sprinkle the slices lightly with salt and let them rest for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. After resting, pat the slices dry with paper towels to avoid sogginess in the final dish.
- Make Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well-incorporated, creating a creamy filling for the roll-ups.
- Assemble Roll-Ups: Spread about 1/2 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Lay out each zucchini slice and place a tablespoon or two of the ricotta mixture near one end. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the filling, then roll up the zucchini slices tightly. Arrange the roll-ups seam-side down in the baking dish for stability during baking.
- Add Sauce and Cheese Topping: Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the arranged zucchini rolls. Sprinkle the rest of the shredded mozzarella and some extra grated Parmesan over the top. Drizzle about a teaspoon of olive oil over the entire dish to add richness and help create a golden crust.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the sauce is bubbly, and the edges of the zucchini rolls are golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, let the roll-ups rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving warm to enhance the flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Salting the zucchini slices is crucial to remove excess moisture, which prevents the roll-ups from becoming watery.
- You can substitute the marinara sauce with homemade or store-bought varieties based on your preference.
- For a low-fat version, use part-skim ricotta and reduced-fat mozzarella cheese.
- These roll-ups can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking for a convenient meal prep option.
- Fresh basil adds both color and a fresh herbal note, but you can garnish with parsley if preferred.
