If you’re searching for a light, wholesome dish that still delivers bold Italian flavor, look no further than Zucchini Ricotta Roll-Ups. This recipe transforms humble zucchini into delicate, cheesy spirals nestled in tangy marinara and topped with fresh basil. It’s the kind of meal that feels comforting yet fresh, and you’ll love how every bite is loaded with creamy herbed ricotta and hints of spice. Whether you’re cooking for weeknight dinner or sharing with friends, Zucchini Ricotta Roll-Ups always impress.

Zucchini Ricotta Roll-Ups Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I adore about this dish is that it relies on just a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a unique role in creating a satisfying meal. Every element—zucchini, cheese, herbs, and sauce—blends together for an irresistible bite packed with flavor and color.

Zucchini: Choose medium-sized zucchinis for the perfect tender bite and easy-to-roll ribbons.
Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta is the heart of these roll-ups, creating a luscious, light filling.
Parmesan: Adds a savory, nutty layer that pairs deliciously with the ricotta.
Garlic: Just one clove, but it brings the whole filling to life with aromatic punch.
Fresh Basil: Chopped basil infuses the ricotta with summery, herby flavor.
Chili Flakes: Optional, but a sprinkle wakes up the dish with gentle heat.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning each layer and balancing the freshness of the vegetables and cheese.
Marinara Sauce: A good, flavorful marinara is the foundation of the bake; use your favorite store-bought or homemade batch.
Extra Basil Leaves: For a bright, fragrant garnish that signals freshness in every serving.

How to Make Zucchini Ricotta Roll-Ups

Step 1: Prep the Zucchini Ribbons

Start by trimming the ends off your zucchinis and slicing them lengthwise into thin, even ribbons. You can use a mandoline slicer for perfectly uniform slices, or a sharp knife if you’re feeling steady-handed. Lightly sprinkle each slice with salt and let them rest for about 10 minutes—this helps draw out excess moisture. Afterwards, pat them dry with paper towels so your roll-ups bake up just right—never soggy!

Step 2: Mix the Herbed Ricotta Filling

In a bowl, combine the creamy ricotta, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, a pinch of chili flakes if you like some heat, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stir everything together until smooth and well-mixed. This simple blend is what makes Zucchini Ricotta Roll-Ups irresistibly flavorful with every bite.

Step 3: Roll Up the Zucchini

Spread a spoonful of your ricotta mixture along each zucchini ribbon, keeping the layer even but not too thick—otherwise, the filling might overflow. Carefully roll each one up, starting at one end and spiraling tightly without squeezing out the cheese. You’ll have a lineup of adorable, cheesy little spirals ready for their tomato bath!

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour your marinara sauce into the bottom of a small baking dish. Nestle the roll-ups upright into the sauce, arranging them close together so they hold their shape. Once your dish is filled, pop it in a 375°F (190°C) oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes. The cheese will bubble, the sauce will thicken, and the zucchini will be perfectly tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Basil and Serve

As soon as your Zucchini Ricotta Roll-Ups emerge, scatter extra fresh basil leaves over the top. Serve them warm, spooning up plenty of sauce with each roll-up. The aroma is purely inviting, and every taste is a little celebration of summer and comfort.

How to Serve Zucchini Ricotta Roll-Ups

Garnishes

You can really make these Zucchini Ricotta Roll-Ups pop with a shower of fresh basil, but you might also try microgreens, a sprinkle of chili flakes, or a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan right before serving for an extra layer of flavor and color.

Side Dishes

These roll-ups pair beautifully with crusty garlic bread to soak up the sauce, a crisp arugula salad with lemon to balance the creaminess, or a simple plate of roasted vegetables for a hearty, vegetarian spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Zucchini Ricotta Roll-Ups look especially lovely when arranged upright, stacked snugly in a round or oval baking dish. For a tapas-style appetizer, serve individual roll-ups in small ramekins with a dollop of sauce and a basil leaf on top, or skewer them for a fun party bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the Zucchini Ricotta Roll-Ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors often meld even more after a day in the fridge.

Freezing

These roll-ups also freeze beautifully. Place cooled roll-ups in a freezer-safe dish with extra sauce to prevent drying out, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat your Zucchini Ricotta Roll-Ups in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method helps keep the zucchini texture just right.

FAQs

Can I make Zucchini Ricotta Roll-Ups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the roll-ups and keep them covered in the refrigerator up to a day ahead. Just bake them when you’re ready to eat—perfect for entertaining or prepping on a busy day.

Do I need to peel the zucchini first?

No need to peel the zucchini; the skin helps the ribbons hold their shape and adds lovely color. Just give them a good wash before slicing.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you’re out of ricotta, try using cottage cheese (well-drained and blended until smooth) or goat cheese for a richer flavor. Both substitute beautifully in these roll-ups.

How thin should I slice the zucchini?

Aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick. Too thick and they won’t roll well; too thin and they might tear. A mandoline slicer makes this job super easy and ensures uniform thickness.

Can I add more veggies or meat to these roll-ups?

Yes! Feel free to add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the ricotta filling, or tuck a thin slice of cooked prosciutto inside for extra depth and richness. Customizing is half the fun!

Final Thoughts

Zucchini Ricotta Roll-Ups are one of those joyful dishes that deliver comfort, freshness, and flavor with every bite. If you’re looking to impress or simply want a new weeknight favorite, give these roll-ups a try. You just might find yourself making them on repeat all season long!

Zucchini Ricotta Roll-Ups Recipe