Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats (35-Minutes)

Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats (35-Minutes)

Easy ground beef zucchini boats prepared in 35 minutes.

why make this recipe

Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are a delicious and healthy meal option that comes together in just 35 minutes. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or as a fun dish to serve at gatherings. Zucchini is a low-carb vegetable that pairs nicely with savory ground beef, making this dish not only tasty but also nutritious. Everyone in the family will love these boats stuffed with flavorful ingredients and melted cheese.

how to make Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium zucchinis
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Olive oil for drizzling

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides to create ‘boats’.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add onions and garlic, and sauté until soft.
  4. Add the ground beef, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook until browned.
  5. Stir in the marinara sauce and remove from heat.
  6. Fill each zucchini boat with the beef mixture and top with mozzarella cheese.
  7. Place the zucchinis on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Serve warm.

how to serve Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats

Serve these zucchini boats hot from the oven. They make a great main dish, and you can pair them with a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also sprinkle some fresh basil or parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.

Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats (35-Minutes)

how to store Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

tips to make Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats

  • Make sure to scoop out enough zucchini flesh to create a good space for filling.
  • Feel free to add other veggies to the filling, like bell peppers or mushrooms, for extra nutrition.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more Italian seasoning or flavors you enjoy.

variation

You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Additionally, you can use different types of cheese, like cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique twist.

FAQs

Can I prep these zucchini boats ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and hollow out the zucchinis a day beforehand. Just store them separately in the fridge until you are ready to cook them.

Can I freeze the zucchini boats?

Freezing is not recommended for cooked zucchini boats as zucchinis can become mushy when thawed. However, you can freeze the filling.

What can I serve with these zucchini boats?

These boats pair well with a side salad, garlic bread, or even some rice if you want a heartier meal.

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Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats

Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are a delicious and healthy meal option, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. These low-carb boats are stuffed with savory ground beef and topped with melted cheese.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 4 medium medium zucchinis
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • as needed Olive oil for drizzling

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides to create ‘boats’.
Cooking
  1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add onions and garlic, and sauté until soft.
  2. Add the ground beef, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook until browned.
  3. Stir in the marinara sauce and remove from heat.
  4. Fill each zucchini boat with the beef mixture and top with mozzarella cheese.
  5. Place the zucchinis on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve warm.

Notes

Make sure to scoop out enough zucchini flesh to create a good space for filling. Feel free to add other veggies to the filling for extra nutrition. Adjust seasoning to taste.