Description
These Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are a healthy and delicious low-carb meal option, combining tender zucchini with a flavorful ground beef filling topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, they are packed with herbs and spices for a satisfying taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Zucchini Boats
- 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise and scooped out
- 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
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
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 then carefully scoop out the centers to create hollow boats. Lightly brush each zucchini half with olive oil and arrange them on a baking sheet. Pre-bake these boats for 5-7 minutes so they soften slightly, which helps with the final bake time.
- Cook the Beef Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat, then add tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend well.
- Assemble & Bake: Spoon the savory beef mixture evenly into the pre-baked zucchini boats. Generously sprinkle the shredded cheese over each filled zucchini. Place the baking sheet back into the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a slight golden crust.
- Serve & Enjoy: Once baked, optionally garnish with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley for extra freshness and flavor. Serve immediately alongside your favorite sides for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a lower-fat option, use lean ground turkey instead of beef.
- You can substitute the tomato sauce with marinara or your preferred pasta sauce.
- Feel free to mix different cheeses for a richer flavor.
- These zucchini boats can be prepared a day ahead and baked fresh when ready to serve.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: ground beef zucchini boats, healthy zucchini recipes, stuffed zucchini, low carb dinner, easy family meals
