These tasty zucchini boats are filled with a delicious mix of ground meat, veggies, and cheese. They are a great way to sneak in healthy foods while still being super satisfying!
Stuffed zucchini boats are so fun to make! I love using different fillings to keep things interesting. Plus, they always look impressive on the dinner table—how fancy, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Medium zucchinis are perfect for stuffing. If you’re out of zucchini, you can use bell peppers or eggplant as tasty alternatives.
Ground Meat: I usually go for ground beef for its flavor, but ground turkey or chicken makes for a lighter option. You can also use plant-based meat for a vegan version!
Marinara Sauce: Marinara brings great flavor to the filling. If you don’t have it, any tomato sauce will work. You can even use salsa for a spicy twist!
Cheese: Mozzarella is gooey and delicious, but feel free to swap it with cheddar, Parmesan, or your favorite cheese!
How Do I Get the Zucchini Boats Just Right?
To make perfectly stuffed zucchini boats, it’s key to scoop out enough flesh without breaking the walls. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, then use a small spoon to gently scoop the center out. Aim for about a 1/4 inch thick wall.
- Before filling, bake the hollowed-out zucchinis for about 10 minutes. This softens them slightly and helps them hold the filling better without getting too mushy.
- Make sure to fill them generously, as they will shrink a bit while baking!
Following these tips will help you create delicious stuffed zucchini boats that are perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor!
Easy Savory Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara or tomato pasta sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This lovely dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes of cooking time, making it perfect for a quick yet satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for the stuffed zucchini boats once assembled.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis and slice them in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, gently scoop out the middle flesh, leaving about a 1/4 inch wall, which will create the boat shape. Don’t forget to set aside the scooped-out flesh!
3. Bake the Zucchini Boats:
Arrange the hollowed-out zucchini halves on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish, brush them lightly with olive oil, and bake for about 10 minutes. This helps them soften up a bit.
4. Cook the Filling:
While the zucchini is baking, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent, about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, but be sure not to burn it!
5. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef (or your choice of meat) to the skillet. Cook it, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through.
6. Mix in the Zucchini Flesh:
Chop up the reserved zucchini flesh and add it to the skillet, cooking for a few minutes until it’s softened. This adds extra flavor and nutrition to your filling!
7. Combine the Sauce:
Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens up a bit.
8. Stuff the Zucchini Boats:
Take the zucchini boats out of the oven and carefully fill each one with the savory meat mixture, piling it up generously to make them hearty.
9. Add Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the filled zucchini boats. Place them back in the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with delightful golden brown spots on top.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious, cheesy stuffed zucchini boats!
This easy recipe turns simple ingredients into a hearty and comforting meal. It’s a great option for a low-carb dinner or anytime you want something satisfying and veggie-packed!
FAQ: Easy Savory Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on the meat you choose.
What Can I Do If I Don’t Have Marinara Sauce?
No worries! If you don’t have marinara sauce, you can use any tomato-based sauce such as spaghetti sauce, crushed tomatoes, or even salsa for a twist. Just be mindful of the flavor profiles you prefer!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or place them in a baking dish in the oven until heated through. You might want to add a little sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating for extra deliciousness!
Can I Make These Zucchini Boats Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to serve, stuff the zucchini boats and bake them. This will speed up your cooking time!
