Description
These Stuffed Zucchini Boats are filled with a savory meat and vegetable mixture, topped with melted cheese, and baked to perfection. A delicious and healthy low-carb meal!
Ingredients
- Zucchini (4 medium-sized, halved lengthwise): Zucchini provides a mild, tender base for the filling. Look for medium-sized zucchinis that are firm and smooth.
- Scoop out the seeds and flesh to create a hollow boat for the filling.
- Ground Meat (1 pound): Ground beef, turkey, or chicken adds protein to the dish, making it hearty and satisfying.
- For a vegetarian option, use quinoa, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the filling, complementing the other ingredients.
- You can use red, yellow, or white onion depending on your preference.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Garlic enhances the savory flavor of the filling, making it aromatic and delicious.
- If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, reduce the amount used.
- Diced Tomatoes (1 cup): Tomatoes add moisture and a hint of acidity, balancing the richness of the cheese and meat.
- Fire-roasted tomatoes can be used for a smoky flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup, grated): Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor to the filling, helping to bring everything together.
- You can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Mozzarella provides a melty, cheesy topping that turns golden and bubbly when baked.
- Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese can be substituted for a different flavor.
- Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that adds Mediterranean flavor to the dish.
- You can make your own blend or add extra fresh herbs like parsley.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Olive oil is used to sauté the vegetables and brown the meat, adding richness to the dish.
- Substitute with avocado oil or another neutral oil if desired.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Basic seasonings that enhance the flavors of the filling and bring out the natural sweetness of the zucchini.
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini: Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create hollow boats. Pre-bake the zucchinis in a 375°F oven for 15-20 minutes until slightly tender.
- Pre-baking helps soften the zucchini and ensures they cook evenly when filled.
- Cook the Filling: Sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and scooped zucchini flesh. Simmer until the mixture thickens. Stir in Parmesan cheese.
- Stuff the Zucchini: Fill the pre-baked zucchini boats with the meat mixture, packing it in tightly. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Return the stuffed zucchini boats to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot with a side salad or bread
Notes
These Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a healthy and flavorful meal that’s easy to customize with different fillings. The tender zucchini pairs perfectly with the savory meat filling and melty cheese, making this a satisfying dish for both low-carb eaters and veggie lovers. You can swap out the ground meat for plant-based options like lentils or quinoa for a vegetarian version, or experiment with different cheeses and seasonings to suit your taste. The dish is great for meal prep and reheats well, making it a versatile option for lunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 40 min
- Category: main course
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed zucchini boat
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: Stuffed Zucchini Boats, Healthy Zucchini Recipe, Low-Carb Dinner Recipe, Easy Zucchini Boats