Description
These Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are a healthy and delicious meal that combines tender zucchini filled with a savory ground beef mixture, topped with melted cheese. Perfect as a low-carb dinner option, they are simple to prepare with fresh ingredients and baked to perfection for a comforting, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Zucchini Boats
- 4 medium zucchinis (halved lengthwise and scooped out to create boats)
Beef Filling
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or parmesan)
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchinis lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the center flesh to create hollow boats. Lightly brush the cut zucchini halves with olive oil and arrange them on a baking sheet. Pre-bake for 5 to 7 minutes to soften them slightly.
- Cook the Beef Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Assemble and Bake: Spoon the beef mixture evenly into the pre-baked zucchini boats. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of each filled zucchini half. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes for a wholesome meal.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content and make the dish healthier.
- Feel free to substitute tomato sauce with marinara or crushed tomatoes for variation.
- For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based mince.
- To add more veggies, mix diced bell peppers or mushrooms into the beef filling.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: ground beef zucchini boats, healthy zucchini recipe, stuffed zucchini, low carb dinner, easy beef recipes, baked stuffed vegetables
