These Easy Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a fun and tasty dish! They feature tender zucchini filled with seasoned ground beef and topped with cheese—yum!
Making these boats is simple, and you can even get the kids involved! I love serving them with a fresh side salad. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Medium zucchinis work great for this recipe as they hold their shape well. If you can’t find zucchini, try eggplant or bell peppers for a different twist!
Ground Beef: I usually go for lean ground beef (85% or 90% lean) to keep it healthier. For a lower-fat option, you can also use ground turkey or chicken.
Onion & Garlic: These add a ton of flavor! If you’re short on time, you might use onion powder. For a milder flavor, green onions can be a nice alternative too.
Cheese: Mozzarella is cheesy and delicious, but you can swap it for cheddar or Monterey Jack. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes work just fine here! Fresh tomatoes are great in summer. If you’re short on tomatoes, you could mix in a spoonful of tomato paste for added richness.
How Can I Make Sure My Zucchini Boats Are Tender and Flavorful?
The secret to perfectly tender zucchini is to bake them just enough to maintain their shape without becoming mushy. Here’s how:
- Cut zucchini in half and scoop out the center gently, leaving room for the filling.
- Brush them lightly with olive oil for flavor and to help them roast nicely.
- When baking, keep an eye on them! Check after 20 minutes. They should be tender but not falling apart.
Also, try to ensure your beef filling has good seasoning! Tasting it before filling the zucchini helps dial in the flavor just right.
Easy Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
For Toppings:
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or oregano and basil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking time, making the total time around 40-45 minutes. Just enough time to whip up something delicious and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for the zucchini boats once you fill them.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise, then scoop out the centers with a spoon to form “boats.” Leave about 1/4-inch of zucchini around the edges to hold the filling. Set the scooped-out flesh aside for later!
3. Brush and Arrange the Boats:
Lightly brush the inside of the zucchini boats with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil, ready for filling!
4. Make the Filling:
In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
5. Add the Vegetables:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the reserved chopped zucchini flesh and the diced tomatoes. Cook this mixture for another 3-4 minutes until heated through and any excess liquid has cooked off. This will make sure your filling is packed with flavor.
6. Fill the Zucchini Boats:
Remove the skillet from heat. Spoon the delicious beef mixture generously into each zucchini boat.
7. Top with Cheese:
Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the filled zucchini boats.
8. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The zucchini should be tender, and the cheese should be melted and golden brown.
9. Ready to Serve:
Once baked, remove the zucchini boats from the oven. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm, and enjoy your Easy Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats!
Delicious and healthy, these zucchini boats are perfect for dinner or meal prep! Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is delicious, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier option or to accommodate dietary preferences.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can pre-cook the beef filling and prepare the zucchini boats in advance. Just assemble the boats when you’re ready to bake, and they can be stored in the fridge for up to a day before cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Boats?
Store any leftover stuffed zucchini boats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
What Are Other Good Toppings or Add-Ins?
Feel free to get creative! You can add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the meat mixture. Topping with crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs can also elevate the flavor!
