These Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are a fun and tasty way to enjoy dinner! They are filled with seasoned ground beef, veggies, and topped with cheese, all snug in a zucchini boat!
What’s great is how easy they are to make! Just scoop out the zucchini, fill them up, bake, and you’re ready to serve up a delightful meal. Perfect for impressing guests or an easy family dinner! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Medium zucchinis are perfect for this dish. If you can’t find them, try using yellow squash or eggplant as a fun twist! Both will hold the filling well.
Ground Beef: I like to use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but you can also substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Onion and Garlic: These add great flavor! If you’re short on time, you can use onion powder and garlic powder instead. I prefer the freshness, but the powdered versions work in a pinch.
Italian Seasoning: It brings all the flavors together. If you don’t have it, mix equal parts of dried oregano, basil, and thyme. This will give you a nice Italian vibe!
Cheese: Mozzarella is the classic choice here, but you could substitute with cheddar or even feta for a different taste. I love the creaminess of mozzarella, but feel free to experiment!
How Do You Scoop Zucchini to Make Boats?
Scooping out the zucchini properly is key to making the boats, so here’s a simple way to do it. You want to create enough room for the filling, but still keep the sides thick enough for stability.
- Slice the zucchini in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and flesh gently.
- Make sure to leave about 1/4 inch of flesh along the sides and bottom.
- Save the scooped out zucchini for your filling; this adds extra flavor and nutrition!
Taking your time with this step ensures you get nice, sturdy boats that will hold all that delicious filling. Happy cooking!
Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus an additional 20-25 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll be enjoying these tasty zucchini boats in about 40-45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for baking your delicious zucchini boats!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis and slice them in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, gently scoop out the centers to create “boats.” Make sure to leave about 1/4-inch thick walls so they hold their shape. Set the scooped-out flesh aside for later!
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant, which should take about 3 minutes.
4. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spoon as you go, about 5-7 minutes. This adds flavor and texture to your filling!
5. Add the Veggies:
Finely chop the reserved zucchini flesh and add it to the skillet along with the diced tomatoes and bell pepper (if using). Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook until the mixture is nicely blended and most of the liquid has evaporated, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Fill the Zucchini Boats:
Place the zucchini halves in a baking dish and fill each boat generously with the beef mixture. Load them up; they should be overflowing with goodness!
7. Top with Cheese:
Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of each filled boat. This will melt beautifully while baking and add a delicious finish!
8. Bake Until Perfect:
Bake the zucchini boats in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You want that irresistible cheesy goodness!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, remove from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you like, and they’re ready to serve. Enjoy your healthy and delicious Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian option. Each will bring its own flavor to the dish!
What Can I Do if I Don’t Have Fresh Zucchini?
If you can’t find fresh zucchini, try using eggplant or yellow squash instead! They both have similar textures and make great substitutes for this recipe.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or place them in the oven until heated through. You may want to add a sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating for extra cheesiness!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed zucchini and assemble them in advance, then cover and refrigerate before baking. When you’re ready to eat, just pop them in the oven – you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
