These stuffed zucchini boats are an easy, healthy dinner made with simple ingredients and baked until perfectly cheesy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy oven-baked meal
- Family-friendly and satisfying
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Easy to customize with different fillings
Ingredients
For the Zucchini Boats
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Filling
- 1 lb ground turkey or ground beef (or plant-based alternative)
- 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- ½ cup cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
Optional Toppings
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Slice zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the centers to create boats.
- Brush zucchini with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground meat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, cooked rice, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
- Spoon filling evenly into zucchini boats.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until zucchini is tender and cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Equipment
- Baking dish
- Skillet
- Spoon (for scooping zucchini)
- Knife and cutting board
Tips & Variations
- Low-carb option: Skip the rice or quinoa.
- Vegetarian version: Use lentils or chickpeas instead of meat.
- Extra cheesy: Add mozzarella and Parmesan together.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a simple green salad
- Pair with garlic bread or crusty bread
- Add roasted potatoes or cauliflower on the side
- Serve straight from the baking dish for a cozy presentation
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving)
- Calories: 390
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 20g
Conclusion
These Stuffed Zucchini Boats are the perfect balance of healthy and comforting. They’re easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and great for both weeknight dinners and leftovers. Save it, print it, and share it with anyone who loves simple, wholesome meals.
FAQ – Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Can I freeze stuffed zucchini boats?
Yes, bake first, cool completely, and freeze for up to 2 months.
How do I make this ahead of time?
Assemble zucchini boats up to 24 hours in advance and bake when ready.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, mozzarella, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or feta all work well.
How do I keep zucchini from getting watery?
Lightly salt and pat dry after scooping, or pre-bake for 10 minutes.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely use lentils, beans, or a plant-based ground alternative.