These Easy Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a tasty way to enjoy a healthy meal. Juicy beef and fresh veggies are packed into wholesome zucchini, making it both satisfying and fun!
Cooking these boats is like playing chef in your own kitchen. Plus, they’re low-carb, which means I can enjoy them guilt-free! Can’t wait to share them with my friends! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: These are the star of the show! Choose medium-sized zucchinis for the best balance of flesh and skin. If zucchinis are hard to find, yellow squash works well too. You can even try bell peppers for a fun twist!
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef, but you can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Vegetarian? Use lentils or beans for a meat-free filling that still packs a protein punch.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is my go-to for a strong flavor, but feel free to mix it up! Mozzarella adds creaminess, while pepper jack can bring a little heat. Use whatever cheese you enjoy most or have on hand.
Tomato Sauce: I often use store-bought marinara for convenience, but homemade tomato sauce is simple and delicious! If you like it spicy, add some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
How Do You Get the Zucchini Boats Just Right?
Getting those zucchini boats right is key for a tasty dish. Here’s a step-by-step on how to handle the zucchini:
- First, give the zucchinis a good wash to remove any dirt.
- Cut them in half lengthwise, and carefully scoop out the center. You want to leave enough flesh, about 1/4 inch, to hold the stuffing.
- Don’t toss that scooped flesh! Finely chop it and mix it back into the beef filling for added flavor and nutrition.
By handling the zucchinis carefully, you ensure they cook evenly and hold all the delicious stuffing beautifully. Happy cooking!
Easy Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup (about 240 ml) tomato sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup (about 100g) shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend like mozzarella and cheddar)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, so plan for a total of about 40 minutes in the kitchen. It’s a quick and easy dish that packs a lot of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will get it ready for the tasty zucchini boats!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and then cut them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the center flesh, creating hollow “boats.” Leave about a 1/4-inch thick shell so that they hold their shape well. Set the scooped flesh aside for later.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them together until they’re soft and fragrant—this should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Brown the Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it while breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned and fully cooked, which should take around 6-8 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if necessary.
5. Mix in the Zucchini Flesh:
Next, chop the reserved zucchini flesh finely and stir it into the beef mixture. Cook this together for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined.
6. Make the Sauce:
Add the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir well and season with salt and black pepper to your taste. Let this simmer for 3-5 minutes to meld all the flavors together nicely.
7. Fill the Zucchini Boats:
Place the prepared zucchini boats in a baking dish, cut side up. Spoon the flavorful beef mixture evenly into each zucchini shell, filling them generously.
8. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the filled boats. Who doesn’t love a cheesy topping?
9. Bake:
Pop your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly—golden brown is the goal here!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done baking, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your easy, delicious beef stuffed zucchini boats with family and friends!
FAQ for Easy Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative like lentils or black beans for a vegetarian option.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture for extra veggies and flavor. Just make sure to finely chop them so they cook well with the meat.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover stuffed zucchini boats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make These Boats Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare them ahead of time by stuffing the zucchini and keeping them covered in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go in cold.
