Description
These Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are a delicious and nutritious meal featuring tender zucchini halves filled with a savory mixture of browned ground beef, onions, tomato sauce, and herbs, then topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a wholesome dinner that combines fresh vegetables with hearty protein.
Ingredients
Scale
Zucchini Boats
- 6 small-medium zucchini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground beef and pork mix)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or dried oregano)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves freshly minced garlic)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1.5 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or Gouda)
Instructions
- Prep zucchini: Wash the zucchini thoroughly. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Use a small spoon to scoop out the flesh carefully, setting it aside for the filling. Place the hollow zucchini halves on a baking sheet.
- Brown beef and season: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook until softened and translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until it is well browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in tomato paste, chopped fresh basil (if using), dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Finish filling: Add the can of tomato sauce and the reserved zucchini flesh to the skillet. Chop the zucchini flesh if desired for a smoother filling. Cover and let the mixture simmer on low heat for 10 minutes. Remove the lid, stir well, and simmer uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to thicken the filling.
- Fill and bake: Preheat your oven to 360°F (182°C). Spoon the beef and zucchini filling evenly into each prepared zucchini half. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the filled zucchini boats. Bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Notes
- Feel free to use a mix of ground beef and pork for more flavor and moisture.
- Fresh herbs like basil add brightness but are optional.
- Cheese options such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Gouda work well; use your favorite.
- You can chop the scooped-out zucchini flesh for a more uniform texture in the filling.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
