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Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe

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Tender zucchini boats filled with a savory ground beef mixture, topped with melted cheese, and baked until perfectly golden. A hearty and satisfying low-carb meal ideal for any night of the week.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

  • 4 medium zucchini
  • 500 g ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. Slice zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the centers, leaving about 1 cm thickness. Chop the scooped flesh.
  3. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook onion until soft, then add garlic and sauté briefly.
  4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat if needed.
  5. Stir in chopped zucchini flesh, tomato sauce, tomato paste, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and cumin. Simmer for 8–10 minutes.
  6. Arrange zucchini boats in the baking dish and fill with the beef mixture.
  7. Top with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
  8. Bake for 20–25 minutes until zucchini is tender and cheese is melted and golden.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute with lentils or sautéed vegetables.
  • Add rice or quinoa for extra heartiness.
  • Prevent excess moisture by lightly salting zucchini and patting dry before stuffing.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat in the oven for best texture.

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