Description
These Amazing Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a quick and delicious dinner option that can be ready in just 30 minutes. Hollowed-out zucchini are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef or turkey, onions, garlic, and seasoned tomatoes, then topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Garnished with fresh parsley, this recipe offers a flavorful, low-carb meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the zucchinis and slice each in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the flesh to create boats, leaving about a 1/4 inch thick shell. Set the scooped flesh aside for the filling.
- Cook the Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Add Vegetables and Seasoning: Stir in the reserved zucchini flesh, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened and well combined.
- Stuff the Zucchini Boats: Place the hollowed zucchini halves on a baking sheet. Spoon the meat and tomato mixture evenly into each zucchini boat, packing the filling gently.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the stuffed zucchinis. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm as a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- To save time, prepare the filling ahead and refrigerate before stuffing.
- For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes to the filling for a slight kick.
- Use gluten-free tomato sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Leftover stuffed zucchini boats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: stuffed zucchini boats, stuffed zucchini, ground beef recipes, healthy dinner, low carb dinner, quick dinners, Italian-inspired recipes