Zucchini Enchilada Roll Ups Recipe

Quick & Flavorful Zucchini Enchilada Roll Ups Recipe

Zucchini enchilada roll ups combine the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine with a lighter, vegetable-forward twist.

Thin strips of tender zucchini replace traditional tortillas, creating a fresh and nutritious alternative to classic enchiladas.

These delightful rolls pack a serious punch of flavor and nutrition, upgradeing everyday ingredients into something truly remarkable.

Crisp zucchini serves as the perfect canvas for savory fillings and bold spices that dance across your palate.

Rolled and baked until golden, these enchilada-inspired delights offer a creative solution for anyone seeking a low-carb meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Each bite promises a harmonious blend of textures and robust seasonings that will tantalize your taste buds.

The magic happens when simple ingredients upgrade into something extraordinary – a testament to culinary creativity and smart cooking techniques.

Why Zucchini Enchilada Roll Ups Are a Fresh Take on Mexican Night

  • Revolutionize Low-Carb Dining: These zucchini enchilada roll ups transform traditional high-carb enchiladas into a vegetable-packed, guilt-free meal that satisfies without compromising flavor.
  • Master Quick Weeknight Cooking: With straightforward assembly and just 25 minutes of baking time, this recipe delivers a delicious dinner that's perfect for busy families seeking nutritious, speedy meals.
  • Customize with Endless Variations: Home cooks can easily swap chicken for black beans, turkey, or shredded beef, making these roll ups adaptable to dietary preferences and pantry ingredients while maintaining the delicious enchilada essence.
  • Nutrition Meets Comfort Food: By replacing tortillas with zucchini, this dish dramatically reduces calories and carbohydrates while providing a protein-rich, vegetable-forward meal that feels indulgent yet supports healthy eating goals.

Ingredients for Zucchini Enchilada Roll Ups

Main Protein and Vegetable Components:
  • Chicken: Shredded protein providing hearty flavor and main filling substance for the roll ups.
  • Zucchini: Light, low-carb vegetable serving as flexible wrapper, best when fresh and firm.
Beans and Corn:
  • Black Beans: Protein-rich legume adding texture and nutritional value to the filling.
  • Corn: Sweet kernel vegetable bringing subtle crunch and mild sweetness to the dish.
Sauce and Cheese:
  • Enchilada Sauce: Spicy, tangy liquid that adds authentic Mexican flavor and moisture to the roll ups.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Sharp, melty dairy product providing rich, creamy taste and golden topping.
Optional Garnish:
  • Cilantro: Fresh herb with bright, citrusy notes that enhances overall flavor profile when used.

How to Assemble Zucchini Enchilada Roll Ups Like a Pro

Step 1: Create Delectable Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
  • Shredded chicken
  • Black beans
  • Corn
  • Enchilada sauce

Stir ingredients until well mixed and evenly coated. The filling should look colorful and appetizing.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Surface

Grab a large baking dish and spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce across the bottom. This creates a moist foundation for your roll ups and adds extra flavor.

Step 3: Craft Zucchini Strips

Slice zucchini lengthwise into thin strips. Arrange 2-3 strips slightly overlapping to create a wide base for rolling. Each strip should be about 3-4 inches wide.

Step 4: Roll and Assemble

Place a generous spoonful of chicken mixture at one end of zucchini strips. Carefully roll the zucchini, ensuring the filling stays tucked inside. Position each roll seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Add Cheesy Topping

Drizzle remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled zucchini. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously across the top, creating a tempting golden layer.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slide the baking dish into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Look for bubbly, melted cheese and slightly browned edges.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your healthy, delicious creation!

Tips for Firm, Flavorful Zucchini Enchiladas

  • Slice Zucchini Perfectly: Use a mandoline slicer or sharp knife to create uniform, thin zucchini strips that roll easily without breaking.
  • Drain Excess Moisture: Pat zucchini slices with paper towels to remove extra water, preventing soggy roll ups and ensuring a crisp texture.
  • Boost Flavor Depth: Add a pinch of ground cumin or smoked paprika to the chicken mixture for an extra layer of authentic Mexican-inspired taste.
  • Control Cheese Melting: Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes after baking to allow cheese to set and become less runny, making serving easier.
  • Customize Protein Options: Swap chicken with ground turkey, shredded beef, or black beans for a versatile vegetarian or protein-packed alternative.

How to Store and Reheat Zucchini Enchilada Roll Ups

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover roll ups in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Reheat in Oven: Warm roll ups at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to retain moisture and prevent cheese from burning. Uncover during the last 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.
  • Microwave Option: Heat individual servings on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stopping midway to stir and ensure even warming. Add a splash of enchilada sauce to maintain juiciness and prevent drying out.

Side Dishes to Pair with Zucchini Enchilada Roll Ups

  • Pair with Crisp Mexican Lager: Grab a light, refreshing beer like Modelo Especial or Corona to balance the rich, cheesy zucchini roll ups. The cold beer cuts through the creamy cheese and complements the spicy enchilada sauce perfectly.
  • Serve with Zesty Lime Margarita: Mix a classic margarita with fresh lime juice, tequila, and a touch of agave. The citrusy, tangy drink will enhance the flavor of the chicken and beans while adding a bright, refreshing element to the meal.
  • Create a Fresh Cilantro Lime Salad: Whip up a quick side salad with mixed greens, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a light lime vinaigrette. This bright, acidic salad will provide a cool contrast to the warm, cheesy zucchini roll ups and cleanse the palate between bites.
  • Add Creamy Avocado Crema: Blend ripe avocados with sour cream, lime juice, and a pinch of salt to create a smooth, cooling sauce. Drizzle this over the roll ups to add an extra layer of richness and creaminess that complements the spicy enchilada sauce.

Tasty Variations of Zucchini Enchilada Roll Ups

  • Vegetarian Veggie Blast: Replace chicken with roasted bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach for a plant-based protein-packed version that keeps the enchilada roll ups vibrant and nutritious.
  • Seafood Sizzler: Swap chicken for succulent shrimp or crab meat, adding a coastal twist with a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning and fresh dill to elevate the seafood flavor profile.
  • Spicy Southwest Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers, and a dash of cayenne to the filling for those who crave intense heat and bold southwestern flavors in their roll ups.
  • Low-Carb Lean Option: Use turkey instead of chicken, reduce corn quantity, and add extra cauliflower rice to create a lighter, protein-focused meal that maintains the original recipe's delicious essence.
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Zucchini Enchilada Roll Ups Recipe

Zucchini Enchilada Roll Ups Recipe


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4.6 from 16 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mexican-inspired zucchini enchilada roll ups deliver a fresh twist on classic comfort cuisine. Savory vegetables wrapped in tender tortillas create a delightful meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or sliced/diced

Vegetables and Beans:

  • 2 pounds (907 grams) zucchini (~24 medium-large), sliced thinly lengthwise
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)

Sauce and Cheese:

  • 2 cups enchilada sauce
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Craft a robust filling by combining shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and enchilada sauce in a spacious mixing bowl, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly integrated.
  2. Create a flavor foundation by generously coating the bottom of a baking dish with enchilada sauce, which will prevent sticking and enhance the overall taste profile.
  3. Transform zucchini into delicate wrappers by layering 2-3 slices slightly overlapping to form a flexible base approximately 3-4 inches wide.
  4. Strategically position a measured portion of the chicken mixture at one end of each zucchini strip, then meticulously roll the vegetable around the filling, ensuring a tight, secure wrap.
  5. Arrange the rolled zucchini parcels seam-side down in the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform arrangement that allows each roll to cook evenly.
  6. Drizzle the remaining enchilada sauce across the top of the zucchini rolls, creating a moisture-rich environment that will prevent drying during baking.
  7. Generously distribute shredded cheddar cheese over the rolls, covering them with a melty, golden blanket of flavor.
  8. Transfer the baking dish to a preheated oven set at 375°F (190°C), allowing the rolls to transform for 20-25 minutes until the cheese becomes gloriously bubbly and edges turn a tempting golden brown.
  9. Remove from the oven and permit the dish to rest briefly, allowing flavors to settle and making serving easier.
  10. Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro to add a vibrant, herbaceous finish that complements the rich, savory rolls.

Notes

  • Unexpected twist transforms classic enchilada into low-carb, veggie-packed marvel.
  • Zucchini strips replace traditional tortillas, creating lighter, fresher meal experience.
  • Cheesy, saucy roll ups deliver maximum flavor with minimal kitchen effort.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
Alex Reed

Alex Reed

Founder & Lead Content Writer

Expertise

Recipe Development and Testing​, Culinary Education​, Food Writing and Blogging​, Sustainable Cooking Practices, Global Cuisine Exploration

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and contemporary cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development. Emphasized hands-on experience in diverse culinary traditions.​

Le Cordon Bleu Paris

  • Program: Diplôme de Cuisine
  • Focus: Advanced instruction in French culinary techniques, including sauce preparation, pâtisserie, and haute cuisine.​

Alex Reed is an inventive chef and food creator with a passion for dishes that balance taste, health, and sustainability. 

Trained at Portland Community College and holding an Advanced Pastry Arts certificate from Oregon Culinary Institute, Alex brings more than 10 years of practical culinary experience to every recipe he develops. 

His background uniquely blends traditional cooking skills with modern, mindful eating principles. As the founder of Beard and Bonnet, Alex creates recipes that encourage readers to cook confidently.

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