Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a healthy, satisfying meal made with hollowed-out zucchini filled with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, vegetables, herbs, and melted cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, they’re low-carb, gluten-free, and full of fresh summer flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lb ground turkey or ground beef
- 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Prep the zucchini: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scoop out the center of each zucchini half with a spoon, leaving about ¼ inch thick shells. Place them cut-side up in a baking dish.
- Cook the filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Add the sauce: Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Fill the boats: Spoon the meat mixture into the zucchini shells. Top evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake another 5–7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh herbs. Serve warm with salad, rice, or crusty bread.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute cooked quinoa, lentils, or plant-based crumbles.
- Add chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the filling for extra vegetables.
- Use store-bought or homemade marinara sauce based on your preference.
- Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days; reheat in oven for best texture.