Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara

Name: Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchini; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup marinara sauce; Fresh basil for garnish; 1 tsp dried oregano

Published: September 3, 2025

by Dian

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
Flavorful Layers: The combination of ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, and zucchini creates a mouthwatering experience.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein from the ricotta, this dish is a nutritious choice for your meals.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or a side; it works well with various cuisines.
Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and reheat for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking dish
Knife
Cutting board
Spoon or spatula
Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and helps hold all those delicious layers together.
Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the zucchini effortless, allowing you to create even pieces for better cooking.
Spoon or spatula: These tools help you spread the ricotta and marinara smoothly over the zucchini layers.

Ingredients

For the Zucchini Layer

2 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise
1 tsp dried oregano

For the Cheese Mixture

1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella

For the Sauce

1 cup marinara sauce

For Garnish

Fresh basil, for garnish

How to Make Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 190C (375F). Lightly grease your baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Layer Zucchini

Place the zucchini slices in a single layer at the bottom of your baking dish. Sprinkle them evenly with oregano to enhance their flavor.

Step 3: Add Ricotta & Sauce

Spread half of the ricotta cheese evenly over the zucchini layer. Then spoon on half of the marinara sauce. Repeat these layers with the remaining zucchini slices, ricotta, and marinara.

Step 4: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top layer to create a cheesy crust when baked.

Step 5: Bake

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. After that time, uncover it and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until it’s golden brown and bubbly.

Step 6: Finish & Serve

Allow the dish to cool briefly before serving. Top with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish. Enjoy your delicious Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara warm!

How to Serve Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara

Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a cozy family meal, these melts are versatile and satisfying.

As a Main Course

Serve the Zucchini Ricotta Melts as the highlight of your meal. Pair them with a simple salad for a refreshing balance.

With Garlic Bread

Complement the cheesy goodness with warm garlic bread. The crunchiness of the bread adds texture and flavor to each bite.

With a Side Salad

A crisp side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette enhances the overall dining experience, providing freshness alongside the rich melts.

As an Appetizer

Cut the melts into smaller portions and serve them as an appetizer. They are perfect for sharing at gatherings or parties.

How to Perfect Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara

To elevate your Zucchini Ricotta Melts, consider these helpful tips that will ensure delicious results every time you make this dish.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh zucchini and high-quality ricotta cheese for the best flavor and texture.
Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning your layers. Adding salt and pepper can enhance the overall taste.
Experiment with Herbs: Try adding different herbs like thyme or basil to customize the flavor profile of your melts.
Adjust Cheese Ratios: Feel free to add more mozzarella if you love cheesy dishes, but remember to balance it so it doesn’t overpower the zucchini.
Let It Rest: Allow the melted dish to rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps set the layers and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara

Pairing side dishes with Zucchini Ricotta Melts can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds color and nutrition to your plate.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes and cucumber provides a nutty flavor that complements the melts nicely.
Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli offers a healthy green option that balances out the richness of the cheese.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes make for a comforting addition, perfect for soaking up marinara sauce.
Crispy Kale Chips: For something crunchy, bake kale chips seasoned with olive oil and sea salt. They add a delightful crunch to your meal.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn can be served alongside as a fun summer treat that pairs well with Italian flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes is key to making perfect Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Overcrowding the Baking Dish: Placing too many zucchini slices can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure a single layer for best results.
Skipping the Seasoning: Forgetting to season with oregano can dull the flavor. Sprinkle generously for a tasty kick.
Not Using Enough Marinara: Insufficient sauce can make the dish dry. Use enough marinara to keep everything moist and flavorful.
Baking Without Covering: Failing to cover with foil at first may cause the cheese to burn. Cover it initially to allow even melting, then uncover later for browning.
Ignoring Cooling Time: Cutting into the melts immediately can cause them to fall apart. Let them sit briefly for better serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Zucchini Ricotta Melts in an airtight container.
They can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara

Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer bag.
These melts can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara

Oven: Preheat to 180C (350F) and reheat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, checking frequently until warm.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara:

Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to replace zucchini with eggplant or bell peppers for different flavors and textures.

How do I know when it’s done?

The dish is ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly, usually after about 25-45 minutes of baking.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Substitute ricotta with a plant-based version and use dairy-free mozzarella for a delicious vegan option.

What should I serve with Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara?

Pair these melts with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it earlier in the day and bake just before serving for convenience.

Final Thoughts

Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara are not only comforting but also easy to customize. Feel free to add your favorite herbs or veggies. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, making it a delightful addition to your meal rotation!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card