Description
A delightful dish that combines savory flavors with a satisfying texture, using zucchini as a vessel for a mixture of ground beef, spices, and cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (14.5 oz or 400 g) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create a boat shape. Set aside the scooped-out flesh for later use.
- In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir in the diced tomatoes and the reserved zucchini flesh, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
- Spoon the beef mixture generously into each zucchini half. Top with shredded cheese, ensuring each boat is well-covered.
- Place the stuffed zucchini boats on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
- For a healthier option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based cheese alternative.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with cooked quinoa or lentils.
- To store leftovers, place the stuffed zucchini boats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- When reheating, pop them in the microwave for a few minutes or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed zucchini half
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Stuffed Zucchini, Ground Beef, Healthy Recipe, Dinner, Family Meal