Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats: A Delicious and Healthy Dinner Idea

There’s something so satisfying about a meal that’s not only delicious but also fun to make and serve. Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats check all those boxes and more. With tender zucchini halves stuffed with savory ground beef, onions, garlic, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella, these zucchini boats are a nutritious, flavorful, and low-carb dinner option that everyone will love.

Whether you’re looking for a creative way to use up summer zucchini or just want a wholesome, family-friendly meal, this recipe is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Stuffed zucchini boats are not only visually appealing but also versatile. They’re:

• Healthy and Low-Carb: Packed with veggies and protein.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite proteins, sauces, and cheeses.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun way to sneak more vegetables into your meals.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Here’s what you’ll need to create these savory, cheesy zucchini boats:

Main Ingredients

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: For a pop of color and flavor.
• Red pepper flakes: For a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats

1. Prepare the Zucchini

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and trim off the stems.
3. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the center of each zucchini half, leaving about ¼ inch of flesh to form a sturdy boat. Chop up the scooped-out flesh and set it aside.
4. Arrange the zucchini halves in the prepared baking dish.

2. Make the Ground Beef Filling

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, releasing its aroma.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce, chopped zucchini flesh, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes.

3. Stuff and Bake the Zucchini Boats

1. Spoon the beef mixture into each zucchini half, filling them generously.
2. Top the stuffed zucchini boats with grated mozzarella cheese.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender.

4. Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the zucchini boats from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
3. Serve hot, either on their own or over rice, pasta, or a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats

1. Choose the Right Zucchini: Look for medium-sized zucchini that are firm and free of blemishes.
2. Don’t Overcook the Zucchini: Keep an eye on them in the oven; you want them tender but not mushy.
3. Use Lean Ground Beef: This helps avoid excess grease pooling in the dish.
4. Add Extra Veggies: You can mix in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for more nutrition.
5. Make It Your Own: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a twist.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per stuffed zucchini boat (based on 8 servings):

Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats

While these zucchini boats are delicious on their own, pairing them with sides can make your meal even more satisfying:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra marinara sauce.
• Side Salad: A crisp Caesar salad or a simple arugula mix balances the richness of the filling.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.

FAQs About Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats

1. Can I make stuffed zucchini boats ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the filling and zucchini ahead of time, then assemble and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I freeze stuffed zucchini boats?

Absolutely. Freeze them before baking for best results. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils, quinoa, or a plant-based meat alternative.

5. What other cheeses work well for this recipe?

Try shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.

6. Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?

Yes, you can use bell peppers, eggplants, or even large mushrooms as a base.

Why You Should Try Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats

This recipe is everything you want in a meal: quick, healthy, flavorful, and versatile. Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a creative way to enjoy classic ingredients in a fresh and exciting form. Plus, they’re fun to make and look impressive on the plate.

Conclusion: Try Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats Tonight

If you’re looking for a dish that’s hearty, healthy, and packed with flavor, Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats are the perfect choice. With their tender zucchini, savory beef filling, and gooey cheese topping, they’re sure to become a family favorite.

Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats: A Delicious and Healthy Dinner Idea

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 8 zucchini boats (4 servings)

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Description

Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a delicious, healthy, and visually stunning dinner option. Tender zucchini halves are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, onions, marinara sauce, and garlic, then topped with melted mozzarella cheese. This low-carb, high-protein dish is perfect for busy weeknights or an impressive family meal.

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• ½ cup onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Red pepper flakes, for heat

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Instructions

• Prepare the Zucchini:
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F and grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
  • Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and trim off the stems.
  • Using a spoon, scoop out the center of each zucchini half, leaving about ¼ inch of flesh to form a sturdy boat. Reserve the scooped-out zucchini flesh and chop it finely.
  • Arrange the zucchini halves in the prepared baking dish.
• Make the Filling:
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  • Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
  • Add the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
  • Stir in the marinara sauce, chopped zucchini flesh, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes.
• Stuff and Bake:
  • Spoon the beef mixture into each zucchini half, filling them generously.
  • Top the stuffed zucchini with grated mozzarella cheese.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender.
• Garnish and Serve:
  • Remove the zucchini boats from the oven and let them cool slightly.
  • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor.
  • Serve warm, on their own or over rice, pasta, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Notes

• Use medium zucchini that are firm and evenly sized for consistent cooking.
• Keep the zucchini slightly crisp by avoiding overbaking.
• Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling for more nutrition.
• Replace the ground beef with turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a variation.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian