Get ready to fall in love with comforting flavors without the carb overload with this Italian Beef & Zucchini Lasagne Roll-Ups (Low-Carb & Cheesy) Recipe. These roll-ups bring together tender ribbons of zucchini filled with a rich, savory beef mixture, creamy ricotta, and plenty of melty cheese. They’re a perfect way to enjoy all the taste of traditional lasagne in a lighter, playful format that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re watching carbs or just craving a fresh twist on a classic, this recipe will become your new weeknight favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that combine to create layers of irresistible flavor and texture. Each one plays a special role in making these roll-ups truly shine—from the fragrant herbs in the beef to the creamy cheeses and fresh zucchini ribbons that replace noodles.
- Lean ground beef (1½ lbs): Provides a hearty, protein-packed base with a rich, meaty flavor.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Helps brown the beef beautifully and adds a hint of fruity richness.
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp): Infuses the beef with classic Mediterranean herbs for authentic taste.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds a warm, savory note that wakes up the entire dish.
- Ricotta cheese (1½ cups): Brings creamy indulgence and helps bind the filling together.
- Egg (1): Acts as a binder in the cheese mixture to keep the texture perfect when baked.
- Grated parmesan (½ cup): Adds salty, nutty depth to the filling and topping.
- Zucchini (4–5 medium, sliced lengthwise): A fresh, low-carb alternative to traditional lasagne noodles.
- Tomato basil marinara (2 cups): Provides bright, tangy sauce—choose sugar-free if keeping it keto.
- Shredded mozzarella (1 cup): Melts beautifully for a gooey, golden topping.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning throughout the layers to taste.
- Optional fresh basil (chopped): For a fragrant, colorful garnish that elevates presentation.
How to Make Italian Beef & Zucchini Lasagne Roll-Ups (Low-Carb & Cheesy) Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish lightly so those beautiful roll-ups don’t stick and bake up perfectly golden.
Step 2: Sauté the Beef Mixture
Warm olive oil in a skillet, then add the ground beef along with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is nicely browned and fragrant. Stir in half a cup of marinara sauce for moisture and flavor, then remove from heat. This savory filling forms the heart of your roll-ups.
Step 3: Mix the Cheesy Filling
In a bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, egg, and grated parmesan. This creamy blend will balance the robust beef with a luscious, cheesy texture that melts beautifully during baking.
Step 4: Prepare the Zucchini “Noodles”
Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin ribbons. Lightly salt them and pat dry to remove excess water—this prevents sogginess and keeps everything perfectly tender.
Step 5: Assemble the Roll-Ups
Lay 2 to 3 zucchini strips overlapping on your work surface. Spread a generous layer of the ricotta mixture across the zucchini, then spoon a bit of the beef mixture on top. Carefully roll the zucchini ribbons into tight cylinders—these are your lasagne roll-ups, packed with flavor in every bite.
Step 6: Arrange Roll-Ups in the Dish
Place the roll-ups seam-side down in the prepared baking dish to keep them intact during cooking. Repeat until the dish is full, making sure they’re snug but not crowded.
Step 7: Top with Sauce and Cheese
Spread the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the roll-ups, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella for a golden, bubbly finish that’s irresistible.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle and the roll-ups hold their shape.
How to Serve Italian Beef & Zucchini Lasagne Roll-Ups (Low-Carb & Cheesy) Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing your dish with a sprinkle of fresh basil adds a burst of bright color and lovely herbal fragrance. You can also grate a little extra parmesan on top for an elegant touch that impresses both eyes and taste buds.
Side Dishes
The roll-ups are a satisfying centerpiece, but serving them alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette or perhaps some roasted garlic asparagus complements the flavors wonderfully while keeping the meal light and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or family gathering, arrange the roll-ups in a circular pattern on a large platter and garnish with basil leaves and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. It creates an inviting, rustic look that invites everyone to dig in and share the joy of this low-carb delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain moisture and flavor so you can enjoy them just as much the next day.
Freezing
These roll-ups freeze beautifully. Place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in foil and plastic wrap. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This keeps the cheese melty and the roll-ups tender without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Absolutely! Thin slices of eggplant or even butternut squash can work, though zucchini is preferred for its tender texture and mild flavor that complements the beef and cheese perfectly.
Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, the Italian Beef & Zucchini Lasagne Roll-Ups (Low-Carb & Cheesy) Recipe is perfect for keto or low-carb diets, especially if you use a sugar-free marinara sauce to keep the carb count low.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. The cheese and zucchini will still give you that comforting lasagne experience.
What’s the best way to slice zucchini for this recipe?
A mandoline slicer or a vegetable peeler works best for creating thin, even ribbons of zucchini that are easy to roll without breaking.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups and store the unbaked dish in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking to save time on busy days.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that marries the hearty goodness of Italian beef with the fresh, tender texture of zucchini, this Italian Beef & Zucchini Lasagne Roll-Ups (Low-Carb & Cheesy) Recipe is your new go-to. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s surprisingly simple to make and delightful every time. Give it a try and watch this become a beloved staple on your dinner table!
Print
Italian Beef & Zucchini Lasagne Roll-Ups (Low-Carb & Cheesy) Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (6–8 roll-ups)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Italian Beef & Zucchini Lasagne Roll-Ups recipe offers a delicious low-carb twist on classic lasagne by replacing traditional pasta sheets with thinly sliced zucchini ribbons. Packed with a savory mix of lean ground beef, creamy ricotta, and rich mozzarella, this dish is perfect for a hearty, cheesy meal that’s also gluten-free and suitable for low-carb diets. Quick to prepare and baked to golden perfection, these roll-ups make an impressive and comforting dinner option for families or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Meat & Sauce
- 1½ lbs lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups tomato basil marinara (sugar-free if keto)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 1½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Vegetables
- 4–5 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise into thin ribbons (or low-carb lasagne sheets)
Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional: chopped fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Beef Mixture: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Brown the beef until fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon. Stir in half a cup of the marinara sauce, then remove from heat.
- Prepare Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and grated parmesan cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Slice Zucchini: Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin strips. Lightly salt the strips and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Assemble Roll-Ups: Lay out 2 to 3 zucchini strips overlapping slightly on a flat surface. Spread a generous layer of the ricotta mixture evenly over the zucchini, then add a spoonful of the beef mixture on top. Carefully roll the zucchini strips into tight roll-ups.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place each roll-up seam-side down into the prepared baking dish. Continue assembling and placing the roll-ups until the dish is full.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the roll-ups. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top for a nice cheesy crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown. Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Patting the zucchini dry is essential to prevent watery roll-ups.
- Use sugar-free marinara sauce to keep the dish low-carb and keto-friendly.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
- Roll-ups can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add baking time if baking from chilled.
- Fresh basil garnish adds a bright herbal note, but it’s optional.
