Name: Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis (Halved lengthwise and scooped out to create “boats.”); 1 tablespoon olive oil (For brushing and sautéing); 1 pound ground beef (Lean ground beef works best, but any variety will do.); 1 small onion (Diced for added flavor.); 2 cloves garlic (Minced for a rich aromatic taste.); 1 cup tomato sauce (A flavorful base for the filling.); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (A blend of herbs for extra flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon paprika (Adds a subtle smokiness.); Salt & pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (Mozzarella, cheddar, or parmesan work well.)

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Introduction

These easy ground beef zucchini boats are a delicious and healthy meal that combines tender zucchinis with a flavorful beef filling. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, they’re simple to prepare and customizable with your favorite cheese and herbs.

The image shows four zucchini boats placed in a dark baking tray on a white marbled surface. Each zucchini is cut in half lengthwise and hollowed out, with a thick layer of cooked ground meat filling the center, showing a rich brown color. On top of the meat, there is a generous layer of melted cheese that is creamy white with some golden spots, slightly bubbly and stringy. Small bits of fresh green herbs are sprinkled on top, adding color contrast. The zucchini itself is bright green with a smooth texture, and the edges are slightly roasted. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 medium zucchinis (halved lengthwise and scooped out to create “boats”)
1 pound ground beef (lean ground beef works best, but any variety will do)
1 small onion (diced for added flavor)
2 cloves garlic (minced for a rich aromatic taste)
1 cup tomato sauce (a flavorful base for the filling)
1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or parmesan work well)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing the beef and onions)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (a blend of herbs for extra flavor)
1/2 teaspoon paprika (adds a subtle smokiness)
Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the center, creating a hollow space for the filling. Lightly brush the zucchini halves with olive oil and arrange them on a baking sheet. Pre-bake the zucchini boats for 5-7 minutes to soften slightly.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat, then stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 3: Spoon the beef mixture evenly into the pre-baked zucchini boats. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of each filled zucchini. Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Tips & Variations

Try swapping ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Use different cheeses like feta or gouda to vary the flavor profile.
Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef filling for extra veggies.
For a spicier kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the beef mixture.

Storage

Store any leftover zucchini boats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the zucchini from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows three zucchini halves with dark green skin serving as the base layer, hollowed out and filled with a layer of cooked ground meat that is brown and crumbly. On top of the meat is a generous layer of melted cheese that is golden and white, slightly browned and gooey, stretching down the zucchini sides. Small green parsley pieces are sprinkled on the cheese for garnish. The zucchinis are placed close together on a baking tray, set against a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use a mix of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or beans for a hearty vegetarian filling.

Can I prepare zucchini boats ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and fill the zucchini boats in advance, then cover and refrigerate them before baking. Bake just before serving to keep the zucchini tender and the cheese melted.