Cheesy Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a wholesome and satisfying dish made with tender zucchini halves filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, onions, garlic, and marinara sauce. Each zucchini boat is topped with gooey mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan, then baked until golden and bubbly.
This easy zucchini boat recipe delivers the perfect balance of cheesy comfort and fresh, garden-inspired flavor. Ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner, it’s low-carb, protein-packed, and perfect for anyone craving a hearty yet light meal straight from the oven.
Delicious Baked Zucchini Boats
Cheesy Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a delightful dish that brings together the wholesome goodness of zucchini with a savory filling.
These Cheesy Zucchini Boats are not only satisfying but also a great way to incorporate healthy vegetables into your meals.
With ground beef, onions, and a rich marinara sauce, each zucchini boat is a perfect vessel for flavor.
The combination of melted mozzarella and Parmesan on top creates a golden, bubbly finish that is hard to resist.
These Stuffed Zucchini Boats are ideal for anyone seeking a hearty meal without the extra carbs, making them a popular choice among healthy eating enthusiasts.
Preparation and Cooking Tips
Preparing these Baked Zucchini Boats is straightforward and can be done in just a few steps.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure the perfect cooking temperature for your dish.
Slicing the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scooping out the insides creates the perfect boat shape for your filling.
When cooking the ground beef, be sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dish light and enjoyable.
Mixing in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning adds depth to the flavor, making every bite delicious.
Customizing Your Zucchini Boats
One of the best aspects of these Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Boats is their versatility.
Feel free to customize the filling by adding your favorite spices or vegetables.
For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the ground beef mixture.
Alternatively, you can swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Experimenting with different cheeses, like cheddar or feta, can also bring a new twist to this classic dish.
Serving Suggestions
These Cheesy Stuffed Zucchini Boats can be served as a main dish or as a side.
Pair them with a fresh salad for a complete meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.
A colorful salad with a variety of vegetables complements the flavors of the zucchini boats beautifully.
For a refreshing drink, a glass of iced tea or lemonade can enhance the dining experience.
This combination makes for a wholesome meal that is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only are these Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini a treat for the taste buds, but they also offer numerous health benefits.
Zucchini is low in calories and high in vitamins, making it a great choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet.
With protein from the beef and calcium from the cheese, this dish is both filling and nutritious.
Each serving provides a balanced mix of macronutrients, ensuring you feel satisfied without overindulging.
This makes it an excellent option for those following a low-carb or high-protein diet.
Conclusion
Incorporating Cheesy Stuffed Zucchini Boats into your meal rotation can bring variety and excitement to your dining table.
With their ease of preparation and customizable nature, these Easy Zucchini Boat Recipes are sure to become a family favorite.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, these zucchini boats deliver on flavor and satisfaction.
Delicious Baked Zucchini Boats
These Cheesy Stuffed Zucchini Boats feature a delightful filling of ground beef and cheese, making them a great option for those looking for healthy zucchini recipes. The dish is simple to prepare and can be customized with various toppings or spices to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Zucchini: Scoop out the center of each zucchini half to create boats. Leave about 1/4 inch of flesh to maintain structure.
- Cook the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stuff the Zucchini: Fill each zucchini half with the beef mixture, pressing down gently. Top with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Place the stuffed zucchini boats on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your cheesy zucchini boats warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 8g