These Easy Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a fun way to enjoy veggies! You simply hollow out the zucchinis and fill them with a tasty mix of meat, cheese, and spices.
Who knew getting your greens could be this exciting? It’s like a cozy little veggie hug for your taste buds! 🌱 I love making these for dinner; they’re quick, flavorful, and make my plate look fancy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This green veggie is the star of the dish! Choose medium-sized ones for the best balance of size and flavor. If zucchini isn’t available, you can use yellow squash or eggplant as tasty alternatives.
Ground Meat: Ground beef brings richness, but ground turkey or chicken also works well for a lighter option. Even plant-based crumbles can be a great substitute for a vegetarian version!
Marinara Sauce: This adds moisture and flavor. If you don’t have it, try using tomato sauce or diced tomatoes with Italian seasonings mixed in. Homemade sauce is even better if you have the time!
Cheese: Mozzarella gives a nice melting quality. Swap it for cheddar or a dairy-free cheese if you need a lactose-free version. The Parmesan is optional but adds a lovely tang!
How Do I Properly Hollow Out Zucchini?
Hollowing out the zucchini for stuffing takes just a few steps. It’s simple, and with a little care, you’ll get perfect “boats”!
- Start by cutting the zucchini in half lengthwise. Ensure you have a steady hand to keep the cut even.
- Use a spoon or melon baller to scoop out the seeds and flesh. Leave about 1/4 inch of the outer flesh intact to keep the shape.
- Don’t toss the scooped-out flesh. Chop it up and add it to your filling for extra flavor!
Taking your time with this step ensures your zucchinis hold up during baking and have enough room for all the tasty stuffing!
Easy Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchini
For the Filling:
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a lighter option)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara or pasta sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or oregano and basil)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and around 25 minutes for baking, totaling roughly 40 minutes from start to finish. A quick and tasty way to enjoy a healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your stuffed zucchini boats.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and slice each in half lengthwise. With a spoon, carefully scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh to make hollow “boats,” leaving about 1/4 inch of the zucchini shell intact for support. Don’t throw away the scooped-out flesh; you’ll need it in the filling!
3. Cook the Filling:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning.
4. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef (or turkey/chicken) to the skillet. Cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is browned and no longer pink. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the pan if necessary.
5. Add the Zucchini Flesh and Seasoning:
Finely chop the reserved zucchini flesh you set aside earlier and stir it into the skillet along with the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
6. Combine with Sauce:
Pour in the marinara sauce and mix everything together. Let it cook for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then remove from heat.
7. Stuff the Zucchini Boats:
Place the hollowed-out zucchini boats in a baking dish. Using a spoon, fill each zucchini with the meat mixture, packing it in nicely.
8. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the top of each stuffed zucchini with shredded mozzarella cheese and, if you’d like, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
9. Bake:
Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the zucchini boats out of the oven and let them sit for a minute. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Enjoy your delicious and healthy stuffed zucchini boats warm!
This dish is perfect on its own or served with a side salad or some crusty bread. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Other Vegetables Besides Zucchini?
Absolutely! While zucchini is the star of this dish, you can try bell peppers, eggplants, or even tomatoes as alternative “boats.” Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable you choose, as some may require different durations to soften.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute the ground meat with plant-based meat alternatives or use a mixture of cooked quinoa, beans, or lentils. You can also add more vegetables like chopped mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and nutrition!
Can I Prepare These Zucchini Boats in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and hollow out the zucchinis a day ahead! Store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, just stuff the zucchini and bake them for a quick meal!
How Should I Store Leftover Stuffed Zucchini Boats?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for a few minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enjoy them as a quick lunch or dinner!
