Crispy Baked Zucchini Ricotta Roll-Ups
These cheesy zucchini roll-ups are filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, coated with Parmesan, and baked until golden. They make a delicious low-carb appetizer, side dish, or light main course.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 (2–3 roll-ups per serving)
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Rolls
- 3 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Olive oil spray
Optional Topping
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Garnish
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- Fresh parsley
Equipment
- Mandoline slicer or sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush or oil spray
- Spatula
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Wash the zucchinis and trim both ends.
Using a mandoline or vegetable peeler, slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin strips (about ⅛-inch thick).
Lay slices on paper towels.
Sprinkle lightly with salt.
Let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
Pat completely dry.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a medium bowl combine:
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella
- Parmesan
- Egg
- Garlic
- Parsley
- Salt
- Pepper
- Italian seasoning
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble
Place about 1 tablespoon of filling at one end of each zucchini strip.
Roll tightly.
Arrange seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Repeat until all filling is used.
Step 4: Finish
Lightly spray each roll with olive oil.
Sprinkle with extra Parmesan if desired.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the tops are golden.
For extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and rosemary.
Serve hot with marinara sauce, garlic yogurt dip, or pesto if desired.
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 185
- Protein: 13 g
- Total Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Net Carbs: 5 g
- Sugars: 4 g
- Sodium: 430 mg
- Calcium: 260 mg
- Potassium: 350 mg
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the brands used.
Nuts Information
Tree Nuts
This recipe does not contain tree nuts when prepared as written.
Peanuts
This recipe does not contain peanuts.
Allergens Present
- Milk (ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan)
- Egg
Cross-Contamination Warning
If preparing this recipe for someone with a severe nut allergy, check labels on:
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
- Olive oil spray
Some packaged products may be processed in facilities that also handle:
- Almonds
- Walnuts
- Cashews
- Pecans
- Pistachios
- Hazelnuts
- Brazil nuts
- Macadamia nuts
- Peanuts
Choose certified nut-free products if necessary.
Tips
- Use a mandoline for evenly thin zucchini slices.
- Don’t skip salting and drying the zucchini, as it prevents watery roll-ups.
- Chill the filling for 10 minutes if it feels too soft to roll.
- Add spinach or chopped basil to the filling for extra flavor.
- Broil briefly at the end for a crisp, golden top.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze after baking for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
- Marinara sauce
- Garlic yogurt dip
- Fresh green salad
- Grilled chicken
- Roasted vegetables
- Cauliflower rice
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&S)
Q1. Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes. Assemble the roll-ups up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Q2. Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes. Blend cottage cheese until smooth for a similar creamy texture.
Q3. How do I keep the zucchini from becoming watery?
Salt the slices, let them rest for 10 minutes, then pat them completely dry before filling.
Q4. Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes. It is naturally low in carbohydrates and suitable for most low-carb and keto meal plans.
Q5. Can I add meat?
Absolutely. Add cooked ground chicken, turkey, sausage, or shredded chicken to the filling.
Q6. Can I air fry these?
Yes. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until golden and heated through.
Q7. Can I freeze them before baking?
Yes. Freeze the assembled roll-ups on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding about 10 extra minutes to the baking time.
Q8. Are these gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all packaged ingredients, including seasonings, are certified gluten-free.
Q9. What other cheeses work well?
Goat cheese, cream cheese, fontina, provolone, or feta can be used alone or mixed with the ricotta.
Q10. What can I serve with zucchini roll-ups?
They’re delicious with marinara sauce, pesto, garlic aioli, a fresh salad, grilled fish, or roasted chicken.
