These Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are a fun and tasty meal! You’ve got hollowed-out zucchini filled with flavorful ground beef, tomatoes, and cheese. Yum!
The best part? You can customize the filling to your liking. I love adding extra veggies or spices—it’s a great way to sneak in healthy bites without anyone noticing! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Fresh medium zucchinis work best for this recipe. However, if zucchinis aren’t available, you can also use bell peppers or eggplants for a different twist!
Ground Beef: I like to use lean ground beef for less fat. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes fit nicely, keeping the dish lighter.
Cheese: Cheddar is my favorite for its sharp flavor, but feel free to use mozzarella or even a vegan cheese if you prefer. You can mix different types of cheese for added flavor!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are super convenient, but fresh tomatoes can add a great taste too! If you’re low on tomatoes, you could use tomato sauce or even salsa for a flavor boost.
How Do You Hollow Out Zucchini Without Making a Mess?
Hollowing out the zucchinis is key to making perfect boats for your filling. Here’s how to do it cleanly:
- First, use a sharp knife to slice them in half lengthwise.
- Next, take a spoon and gently scoop out the inside, being careful not to pierce the shell. A grapefruit spoon works well because it has a serrated edge.
- Leave a bit of flesh (about 1/4 inch) to keep the zucchini sturdy.
- Save the scooped-out bits; they can be mixed into your filling for extra flavor and nutrition!
Don’t rush this step—taking your time helps you make those beautiful, sturdy boats!
Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 3 medium zucchinis
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or oregano/basil mix)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and approximately 25 minutes to bake. So, in just about 40 minutes, you’ll have a warm, cheesy dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s hot and ready when your zucchini boats are assembled!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly. Then, slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, gently scoop out the center flesh of each half, leaving about a 1/4-inch thick shell. Don’t forget to chop the scooped-out flesh and set it aside for later!
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 3 minutes until they become softened and fragrant.
4. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through—this should take around 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it off.
5. Combine the Filling:
Stir in the diced tomatoes, reserved chopped zucchini flesh, Italian seasoning, and a dash of salt and pepper. Let this mixture cook for another 3-4 minutes until it’s all heated through and slightly thickened.
6. Add Cheese!
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This adds a lovely creaminess to your filling.
7. Assemble the Zucchini Boats:
In a baking dish, place the zucchini halves cut side up. Carefully spoon the savory ground beef mixture evenly into each zucchini boat. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese generously over the top.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and let the zucchini boats bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly. If you like, sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor. Serve them warm and enjoy your tasty zucchini boats!
These Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are not only delicious but also a fun way to incorporate healthy veggies into your meal. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork work well as substitutes for ground beef. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can use plant-based meat alternatives or a mix of beans and veggies!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover zucchini boats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or you can microwave them for a quicker option.
What Can I Do If My Zucchini Is Too Watery?
To reduce moisture, you can sprinkle a little salt inside the hollowed-out zucchinis and let them sit for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This helps draw out excess water. You can also cook the filling a bit longer to evaporate some moisture.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini boats up to the baking step and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re chilled.
