Description
These Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are a healthy and delicious low-carb meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner. Tender zucchini halves are pre-baked and then stuffed with a savory mixture of ground beef, onions, garlic, tomato sauce, and warm Italian spices. Topped with melted cheese and baked to bubbly perfection, these zucchini boats are flavorful, satisfying, and perfect for the whole family.
Ingredients
Zucchini Boats
- 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise and scooped out to create boats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Beef Filling
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 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 in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the center flesh, creating hollow boats for the filling. Lightly brush the zucchini halves with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet. Pre-bake the zucchini boats for 5-7 minutes to soften slightly.
- Cook the Beef Filling: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until fully browned. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Assemble and Bake: Spoon the beef mixture evenly into each of the pre-baked zucchini boats. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the tops. Return the stuffed zucchini boats to the oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes for a wholesome meal.
Notes
- Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and calories.
- Pre-baking the zucchini helps prevent sogginess by removing excess moisture.
- You can substitute tomato sauce with marinara or crushed tomatoes for different flavor variations.
- Feel free to add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra veggies.
- To make it vegetarian, replace ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based meat substitutes.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
