Cheesy Zucchini Rollatini
Introduction
Tender zucchini ribbons rolled around a creamy, cheesy filling and baked in rich marinara sauce, this Cheesy Zucchini Rollatini is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. It has all the satisfying flavors of classic Italian comfort food while letting fresh zucchini take center stage.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tender zucchini with a cheesy center
Rich marinara sauce
Golden, bubbly cheese topping
Easy to prepare
Perfect low-carb dinner option
Great for family meals
Ingredients
3 medium zucchini
1½ cups ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups marinara sauce
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Extra mozzarella and Parmesan, for topping
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin, even ribbons using a sharp knife or vegetable slicer.
3. Arrange the zucchini slices on a baking sheet and lightly sprinkle with salt.
4. Let them sit for about 10 minutes, then pat away excess moisture with paper towels.
5. In a bowl, combine the ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
6. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce across the bottom of the baking dish.
7. Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture at one end of each zucchini slice.
8. Carefully roll each zucchini slice around the filling.
9. Arrange the rolls seam-side down in the baking dish.
10. Spoon the remaining marinara sauce around and over the rollatini.
11. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and a little Parmesan over the top.
12. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
13. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
14. For a golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes while watching carefully.
15. Let the rollatini rest for 5 minutes.
16. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Tips
Slice the zucchini thinly enough to roll but not so thin that it tears.
Removing excess moisture helps prevent watery rollatini.
Don’t overfill the zucchini slices.
For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
Allow the dish to rest briefly before serving so the rolls hold their shape.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cheesy Zucchini Rollatini with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple tomato salad. It also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or Italian sausage.
Conclusion
Cheesy Zucchini Rollatini features tender zucchini wrapped around a creamy ricotta and mozzarella filling, all baked in savory marinara sauce until bubbling and golden. It’s a comforting Italian-inspired dish that’s satisfying, flavorful, and easy enough for a weeknight dinner.