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Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Stuffed Zucchini Boats are tender zucchini halves filled with a savory meat, tomato, and cheese mixture, then baked until bubbly and golden. A wholesome, flavorful dish perfect for dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium zucchini
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb ground beef, turkey, or chicken
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Slice zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out centers, leaving a 1/4-inch shell. Brush with olive oil and place in a baking dish.
  3. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil. Add ground meat and cook until browned.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and reserved zucchini flesh. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Spoon filling into zucchini halves. Top with Parmesan and mozzarella.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbly.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Precook zucchini shells for 5 minutes to avoid sogginess.
  • Use quinoa, lentils, or mushrooms instead of meat for a vegetarian version.
  • Top with breadcrumbs for added crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed zucchini boats, baked zucchini recipe, healthy zucchini dinner, zucchini with cheese and meat