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.
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
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