These easy stuffed zucchini boats are a fun and tasty way to enjoy your veggies! Filled with a mix of delicious ingredients like ground meat, cheese, and spices, they pack a flavor punch!
I love how they are healthy but feel like a special treat. Plus, you can get creative with the fillings! It’s the perfect way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: These are the stars of the dish! Choose firm and fresh zucchinis. If you can’t find zucchinis, yellow squash is a great substitute. It has a similar texture and taste.
Ground Meat: Ground beef is popular, but ground turkey is a lighter alternative. You could even use a meat substitute like lentils or quinoa for a vegetarian option!
Cheeses: Parmesan adds a nice tangy flavor, while mozzarella gives that gooey texture. If you are dairy-free, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or vegan cheese.
Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are super convenient, but fresh tomatoes work well too. If you’re looking for less moisture, use cherry tomatoes for a sweeter kick!
How Do You Cut and Hollow Zucchini Properly?
Cutting and hollowing zucchinis may seem tricky, but it’s simple! Here’s how:
- Start by washing the zucchinis well to remove any dirt.
- Slice them in half lengthwise. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.
- To scoop out the flesh, use a spoon with a rounded edge, working carefully to leave a sturdy edge.
- Be gentle to avoid breaking the zucchini boat! Aim for about a 1/4 inch thickness.
Practice makes perfect, and before you know it, you’ll be a pro at making zucchini boats!
Easy Savory Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes to bake, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying way to enjoy a healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Zucchini:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, wash the zucchinis thoroughly. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise. Then, use a spoon to scoop out the center flesh, creating little “boats” while leaving about 1/4 inch around the edges. Save the scooped-out flesh for later! Set the hollowed zucchinis aside.
2. Cook the Filling:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes, until they’re softened and fragrant. Next, add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart and cook it until it’s browned and cooked through, around 5-7 minutes.
3. Mix in Additional Ingredients:
Once the meat is cooked, stir in the chopped zucchini flesh, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let this mixture cook for another 3-4 minutes to meld the flavors and allow some moisture to evaporate.
4. Assemble the Zucchini Boats:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Now it’s time to fill the zucchini boats! Place each boat in a baking dish and evenly spoon in the savory meat mixture.
5. Add Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and the shredded mozzarella on top of each stuffed zucchini. Then, pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done baking, take your stuffed zucchini boats out of the oven. If you’d like, you can garnish them with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful and healthy meal!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Savory Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Other Meats or Meat Substitutes?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Lentils, quinoa, or black beans make great meatless fillings, adding both protein and texture!
What Can I Do If I Have Leftover Filling?
If you have extra filling, consider using it in a pasta dish, as a topping for baked potatoes, or as a filling for other vegetables like bell peppers or eggplant. It’s versatile and can be used in many dishes!
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffed Zucchini Boats?
Leftover stuffed zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or use a microwave for a quicker option!
Can I Prepare These Zucchini Boats in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the zucchini boats the day before. Store the assembled boats in the fridge, then bake them when you’re ready to serve. Just know you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re coming straight from the fridge!
