These Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are a fun twist on dinner! Just hollow out some zucchini and stuff them with a tasty mixture of seasoned ground beef, cheese, and spices.
It’s like having a mini casserole, and they’re super easy to make. I love serving these with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top. Anyone else have a cheese obsession? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: These are the star of the dish! Choose medium zucchinis for the best size. If you’re in a pinch, yellow squash can be a fun substitute with similar texture.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works well, but you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, taco-seasoned lentils or quinoa could also fit nicely!
Marinara Sauce: I love a good, rich marinara, but you can easily swap it for any pasta sauce you have on hand. Try a homemade tomato sauce or even salsa for a zesty flavor!
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic, but feel free to mix in cheddar or Parmesan for extra flavor. Vegan cheese also serves as a wonderful option if you’re avoiding dairy!
How Do I Get the Zucchini Just Right?
Hollowing zucchinis can be tricky, but here’s how to do it well:
- Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the center using a spoon. Don’t scoop too deep; leave about 1/4 inch for support.
- Consider salting the insides of the zucchinis before filling to draw out excess moisture. Let them sit for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
This helps keep your filling from becoming watery while cooking. Enjoy those tasty zucchini boats with confidence!
Easy Ground Beef 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
- 1 cup marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil (for cooking and drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook, totaling around 35 minutes. It’s a quick, healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Zucchini:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, wash the zucchinis thoroughly and slice them in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the seeds and some flesh using a spoon—this is where the fun part of stuffing happens! Place your hollowed zucchinis cut side up in a baking dish.
2. Cooking the Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle some olive oil and add the chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant.
3. Browning the Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to your skillet. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, breaking it up with a spatula as you go to ensure it cooks evenly.
4. Mixing in the Goodness:
Once your beef is cooked, stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 3-5 minutes so the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Stuffing the Zucchini:
It’s time to fill those zucchini boats! Spoon the savory ground beef mixture generously into each hollow zucchini half, pressing down slightly to pack it in. After that, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each stuffed zucchini to create that irresistible cheesy layer.
6. Baking to Perfection:
Place the 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. Keep an eye on them; every oven varies a bit!
7. Garnish and Serve:
When ready, remove the zucchini boats from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them warm, and enjoy your delicious Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Other Meats Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork if you prefer. For a vegetarian option, try using black beans, lentils, or chopped mushrooms seasoned with your favorite spices!
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Boats?
Store any leftover zucchini boats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat them, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make These Zucchini Boats Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and hollow out the zucchinis a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, fill them and cook as directed!
What Can I Pair These Zucchini Boats With?
These zucchini boats are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a side salad, garlic bread, or even over pasta for a full meal. Enjoy the versatility!
