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White Lasagna with Zucchini and Ground Beef

A creamy, decadent lasagna layered with zucchini and ground beef, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb 90% Lean Ground Beef Serves as the foundation of your lasagna.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced for enhanced flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Fennel Seeds Adds a unique, slightly sweet flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Infuses the lasagna with a classic Italian essence.
  • 3 teaspoons Fresh Italian Parsley Brings brightness to the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances all flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Provides a touch of heat.
  • 1 teaspoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil Used for sautéing.
  • 6 ounces Cream cheese Adds luxury to the sauce.
  • 8 ounces Shredded Mozzarella Divided for beef and topping.
  • 2 cups 1% milk Makes the white sauce velvety.
  • 1.5 cups Chicken Broth Enriches the sauce.
  • 1/4 cup Butter Provides a rich flavor.
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Thickens the white sauce.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt Enhances the sauce flavor.
  • 8-10 pieces Lasagna Noodles The backbone of your dish.
  • 2 Large Zucchini Adds freshness and nutrition.

Method
 

Preparation of Zucchini
  1. Cut the zucchini into long strips from stem to stem, making them about 1/4 inch thick.
Seasoning the Beef
  1. Mince the garlic and chop fresh parsley. Combine these with fennel seeds, oregano, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl with the ground beef.
Browning the Beef
  1. Preheat a large pot over medium-high heat and add extra virgin olive oil.
  2. Add the ground beef mixture and brown for about five minutes.
  3. Stir in the cream cheese until melted and combined, then set aside.
Making the White Sauce
  1. Warm the milk slightly.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and whisk in the flour.
  3. Gradually whisk in the warmed milk and chicken broth, then stir in the salt.
Assembling the Lasagna
  1. Ensure lasagna noodles are ready. If using traditional noodles, par-cook them.
  2. Layer the baking dish with white sauce, lasagna noodles, beef mixture, zucchini strips, and more white sauce.
  3. Repeat layers and finish with mozzarella cheese and parsley on top.
Baking the Lasagna
  1. Cover and bake in the oven at 400°F for 30 minutes.
  2. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, then broil for 5 minutes.
  3. Let rest for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Notes

To reduce moisture from zucchini, sprinkle strips with salt and let sit before assembling. For a richer flavor, consider using ground beef and Italian sausage. Feel free to add more vegetables for nutrition.