Baked Zucchini Ricotta Rollups

Name: Baked Zucchini Ricotta Rollups
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large zucchinis; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Sweet Haven

I absolutely love making Baked Zucchini Ricotta Rollups, especially when I’m looking to impress family and friends with a delightful dish. The zucchini serves as a perfect vessel for the creamy ricotta and adds a nutritious twist to any meal. I find that this recipe provides a satisfying balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal appetizer or main course. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy summer’s freshest vegetables. I can’t wait for you to try this tasty dish!

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-18T03:43:14.022Z

When I first made these Baked Zucchini Ricotta Rollups, I was genuinely surprised by how delicious they turned out. I chose fresh zucchini from my garden, which not only made the dish more vibrant but also packed it with flavor. The creamy ricotta fills the rolled zucchini perfectly, and a sprinkle of herbs brings the whole dish together.

One key tip I discovered is to salt the zucchini slices for about 10 minutes before rolling them. This helps to draw out some moisture, preventing the final dish from becoming soggy. I love serving them hot, fresh from the oven, with a side of marinara sauce for dipping!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A delightful combination of creamy ricotta and fresh herbs
Healthy and satisfying without feeling heavy
Perfect for entertaining or a casual family dinner

Mastering the Zucchini

Choosing the right zucchini is crucial for successful rollups. Look for firm, medium-sized zucchinis with smooth skin. They should feel heavy for their size, which indicates juiciness. I recommend using smaller zucchinis for more tender slices, as larger ones might have tougher skin. A mandoline slicer can help achieve thin, even slices that roll easily and prevent tearing.

As you prepare the zucchini, salting it before use is key to drawing out excess moisture. After salting for about 10 minutes, rinse and pat the slices dry. This prevents soggy rollups and helps keep the filling intact. For an even firmer bite, you can briefly grill or roast these slices beforehand, enhancing the flavor profile with a smoky note.

Enhancing the Ricotta Filling

The ricotta filling is the star of this dish, so don’t hesitate to customize it. You can add minced garlic or a pinch of nutmeg for an aromatic upgrade. Adding a splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors, complementing the rich cheese. For those who prefer a little heat, a dash of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.

Make sure your ricotta is well-drained to avoid excess moisture. If your ricotta feels too loose, placing it in a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth for about 30 minutes can help. This preparation ensures a firmer filling that won’t leak during baking, keeping the assembly intact and looking beautiful on the table.

Ingredients

For the Rollups

2 large zucchinis
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping

1 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil

Adjust the seasoning as needed to your taste preferences.

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin planks. Sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to sweat.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix together the ricotta, Parmesan, egg, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Rollups

Rinse the zucchini slices to remove excess salt and pat them dry. Place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture at one end of each slice and gently roll them up. Place the rollups seam-side down in a baking dish.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour marinara sauce over the rollups, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and drizzle with olive oil.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Allow the rollups to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

Using a mandoline for slicing the zucchini can ensure even thickness and easier rolling.

Serving Suggestions

These Baked Zucchini Ricotta Rollups are wonderfully versatile. Pair them with a fresh green salad, or serve alongside crusty garlic bread to soak up the marinara sauce. A light drizzle of balsamic reduction can elevate the dish, adding a sweet and tangy contrast. For a more substantial meal, serve over a bed of quinoa or whole grain pasta.

Leftover rollups can be enjoyed cold as a snack or warm as a quick lunch. They also reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven—just cover them lightly in a microwave-safe dish or wrap in foil to prevent drying out. If reheating in the oven, aim for 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in the filling. Mixing in feta or goat cheese creates a tangy twist, while adding shredded mozzarella for stringiness enhances the cheesy experience. For a protein boost, incorporate cooked ground turkey or sautéed mushrooms into the ricotta mixture, blending flavors and textures that will excite your palate.

If you're looking for a lighter dish, consider skipping the marinara topping and topping each roll with a dollop of pesto or a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving. This not only cuts down on prep time but also gives the dish a refreshing zip perfect for warmer months. You could even use a variety of vegetables such as eggplant or bell peppers for assembling similar rollups.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with feta, goat cheese, or even a blend of your favorites.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

You can substitute ricotta with a tofu-based mixture and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.

→ What can I serve with these rollups?

These rollups pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or garlic bread.

→ Can leftovers be frozen?

Yes! Just make sure to freeze them in an airtight container, and they can last up to 2 months.