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Ground Beef Zucchini Boats

Ground Beef Zucchini Boats

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: dinner
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

For the Zucchini Boats
  • 4 medium zucchini
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For the Ground Beef Filling
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup marinara sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
Optional Add-ins for More Flavor
  • ½ cup diced bell pepper
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs for a thicker filling
  • Fresh basil or parsley
  • A splash of Worcestershire sauce

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or aluminum foil
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Spoon or melon baller (for scooping zucchini)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

Prepare the Zucchini
  1. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise.
  2. Using a spoon, scoop out the center to create a hollow “boat,” leaving a small border for structure.
  3. Brush lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  4. Place the zucchini halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
  5. Bake at 400°F (205°C) for 10 minutes to soften them slightly.
Cook the Ground Beef
  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  3. Once browned, stir in:
  4. Onion
  5. Garlic
  6. Bell pepper (if using)
  7. Cook until the vegetables soften.
  8. Season with:
  9. Italian seasoning
  10. Paprika
  11. Red pepper flakes
  12. Salt and pepper
  13. Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  14. Add marinara sauce or crushed tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes.
  15. Stir in grated Parmesan for richness and to help thicken the filling.
Assemble the Boats
  1. Remove pre-baked zucchini from the oven.
  2. Spoon the beef mixture into each zucchini shell, packing it in generously.
  3. Top each one with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake Until Bubbly
  1. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until:
  2. The zucchini is tender
  3. The cheese is melted and golden
  4. The filling is heated through
  5. For extra browning, broil the tops for 1–2 minutes.