Sausage and zucchini noodle casserole with cheesy ricotta and mozzarella topping
Enjoy a hearty Sausage and Zucchini Noodle Casserole topped with cheesy ricotta and mozzarella. Made with fresh zucchini noodles, savory Italian sausage, and a flavorful tomato-basil sauce. Perfect for a comforting and nutritious meal!
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
6 zucchini1 tbsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil
8 oz italian sausage
1.50 cups onion
3 garlic cloves
1 can canned tomatoes
2 cups basil leaves
1.50 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
This Sausage and Zucchini Noodle Casserole is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage with fresh zucchini noodles. Topped with a rich and cheesy ricotta-mozzarella blend, this casserole is not only delicious but also a lower-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
Instructions:
- Using a spiralizer, create zucchini noodles from the 6 zucchinis.
- Spread the zucchini noodles on a large baking sheet and sprinkle evenly with 1 tablespoon of salt. Let them sit for about 20-30 minutes to draw out excess water.
- After the time has passed, use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze and blot the zucchini noodles dry. This will help prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until the onions are softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the canned tomatoes and add the fresh basil leaves. Stir to combine.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
- In a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce mixture on the bottom.
- Add a layer of zucchini noodles, then a layer of the cooked sausage, followed by dollops of the ricotta cheese mixture.
- Continue layering with sauce, zucchini noodles, sausage, and ricotta mixture until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce on top.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious sausage and zucchini noodle casserole with cheesy ricotta and mozzarella topping!
Tips:
- Use a spiralizer to easily create uniform zucchini noodles. If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can also use a julienne peeler.
- Pre-salting the zucchini helps to draw out excess moisture, preventing your casserole from becoming watery.
- Make sure to thoroughly cook the Italian sausage and drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being too greasy.
- Fresh basil adds a lovely flavor, but if you don't have fresh, you can substitute with dried basil—just use about 1 teaspoon instead.
- Mix the ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses together until well-combined. This will ensure an even, cheesy topping.
- For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Once you take your Sausage and Zucchini Noodle Casserole out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes to set. You'll love how the flavors meld together, creating a cozy, cheesy, and savory dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Serve it on its own or with a side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious, home-cooked creation!
Nutrition per serving
6 ServingsCalories 410kcal
Protein 30g
Carbohydrates 18g
Fiber 4.14g
Sugar 10g
Fat 27g
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