These Easy Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a fun and tasty way to enjoy your veggies! They are filled with seasoned ground beef and topped with melted cheese. Yum!
I love making these for a quick dinner. You can even customize them with your favorite toppings. Plus, they are a hit with kids—everyone loves a good boat meal! 🚤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Medium zucchinis are perfect for this recipe because they hold their shape well. If zucchinis aren’t available, you can also use bell peppers or eggplants.
Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for less grease, but ground turkey or chicken are good swaps for a lighter dish. You could even use plant-based meat for a vegetarian version!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is my favorite for its melting quality. If you want something different, try mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. Vegan cheese works well too if you’re avoiding dairy.
Tomato Sauce: If you have fresh tomatoes, feel free to chop them up and use them instead of sauce. For a spicier kick, add some salsa or crushed red pepper.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in the Filling?
Folding in the zucchini flesh into the beef filling is key to lifting its flavor. It adds moisture and uses every part of the zucchini. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Start by sautéing garlic and onions until they’re soft—this builds a flavorful base.
- Make sure to season your beef as it cooks; doing this will enhance the taste.
- Allow the filling to simmer for a few minutes after adding the tomato sauce and spices, letting the flavors mix well.
With these tips, your stuffed zucchini boats will be full of delicious flavors in every bite!
Easy Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Filling:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for preparation and 25 minutes of cooking time. So, in total, you’ll need around 35 minutes to enjoy delicious beef stuffed zucchini boats from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, turn on your oven and preheat it to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, you can get everything else ready.
2. Prepare the Zucchinis:
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly. Using a sharp knife, slice each one in half lengthwise. Take a spoon and scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh to create “boats.” Aim for about 1/4 inch of zucchini around the edges to hold in all that yummy filling. Keep the scooped out zucchini flesh on the side for later!
3. Cook the Filling:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and softened. Then, throw in the ground beef, stirring until it is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Mix in the Other Ingredients:
Now, add the chopped zucchini flesh you set aside earlier, along with the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to blend those lovely flavors.
5. Fill the Zucchini Boats:
Once your filling is ready, spoon it evenly into each zucchini boat. Make sure to pack it nicely for a hearty bite!
6. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the stuffed zucchinis. It’ll melt beautifully in the oven!
7. Bake:
Place your stuffed zucchini boats on a baking sheet or in a casserole dish and pop them in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
After baking, remove the zucchini boats from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious meal!
FAQs for Easy Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary for the different types of meat.
What Can I Use Instead of Tomato Sauce?
If you don’t have tomato sauce, marinara sauce works perfectly! You can also use salsa for a spicy kick or even fresh diced tomatoes (just remember to drain some of the liquid). This adds a fresh flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed zucchini boats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them in the microwave or in the oven for the best results.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini and filling a day ahead. Just assemble them and keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the refrigerator.
