So, I was planning to make zucchini roll-ups. But, I don't have a mandoline... Turns out- it's very difficult to create thin enough zucchini slices! A pretty rolled-up effect was just not happening.

Plus, it takes so much more time to make all of these individual rolls! Who has time for that?

But, my art teacher in elementary school used to tell us to turn our art mishaps into "happy accidents."

So, here is my happy accident. Let's save ourselves some time and enjoy all of the delicious flavors in an unrolled version!

These zucchini un-roll ups are lasagna with sliced zucchini used in place of the noodles. It's low carb, gluten free, healthy, and delicious! Plus, it's perfect for zucchini season!

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Roll Up Fillings

• Ricotta
• Mascarpone
• Cottage Cheese
• Alfredo Sauce
• Marinara
• Ground Sausage
• Ground Beef
• Ground Turkey
• Onion
• Bell Peppers
• Mushrooms
• Spinach

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Ingredients in Zucchini Lasagna Un-Roll Ups

• Olive Oil
• Zucchini
• Italian Sausage
• Ricotta
• Onion
• Bell Peppers
• Garlic
• Mozzarella Cheese
• Mini Mozzarella Pearls
• Marinara Sauce
• Oregano

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How to Make Zucchini Un-Roll Ups

1. Slice the zucchini lengthwise, into 1/4 inch or less slices. I prefer a bit thicker at 1/4 inch. Then, salt. Let sit for at least 15 minutes. Dry with a paper towel before using.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 Tbsp. of olive oil over medium-high heat. Next, add the onion and peppers and sauté for 4-6 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Then, add the garlic and ground sausage. Break the meat up into small pieces and continue to cook until the sausage is no longer pink. Next, stir in the ricotta, 1/2 cup of mozzarella, and oregano.
3. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
4. LAYER THE CASSEROLE: You can either create 2 or 3 layers, depending upon the size of your baking dish. In a 9x13 dish, I would create 2 layers. Spoon marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish. Then, cover the bottom of the dish with slices of zucchini. Next, spoon some of the meat mixture over the zucchini. Sprinkle with mozzarella. Then, use a spoon to drizzle marinara over the cheese. Repeat the layers 1-2 more times. For the top layer, I do not add marinara sauce. I finish with a layer of shredded mozzarella and then add the mini mozzarella pearls to the top.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also broil for a few minutes for browned cheese on the top.

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What are Zucchini Roll Ups?

Zucchini roll ups are thinly sliced zucchini topped with a ricotta, meat, and veggie mixture. Then, the zucchini is rolled up, topped with cheese, and cooked in a tomato sauce. It's a twist on classic lasagna- just think of the slices of zucchini as lasagna noodles.

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Why do I need to salt the zucchini slices?

Zucchini has a lot of water. By salting the zucchini and allowing it to sit for 15+ minutes, this will draw out some of that moisture. In the end, this will help the casserole to not become soggy.

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Use in place of ricotta?

Ricotta is traditionally used in lasagna; however, cream cheese makes a great substitute.

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Craving more???

Gluten Free Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Stuffed Mini Peppers

Buffalo Chicken Casserole