These Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are a fun and tasty dish! You scoop out zucchinis, fill them with seasoned ground beef, and bake until they’re tender and delicious.
It’s like eating little boats of flavor! I love serving them with a sprinkle of cheese on top because who can say no to extra cheese? Perfect for a light dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Medium zucchinis work best because they hold their shape and provide a good amount of filling space. If you can’t find zucchinis, try using bell peppers or eggplant as an alternative!
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef for this recipe. However, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Marinara Sauce: Marinara adds great flavor, but if you’re out, any tomato sauce or canned tomatoes work well, too. For a twist, use salsa for a bit of heat!
Cheese: Mozzarella is a classic choice here. If you’re looking for something different, feel free to swap it out with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option.
How Do I Get My Zucchini Boats to Cook Just Right?
Cooking zucchini boats perfectly is all about timing. To ensure they are cooked through but not mushy, follow these steps:
- Pre-bake zucchini for about 10-15 minutes before adding the filling. This helps them soften slightly without becoming overly mushy.
- Keep an eye on them in the last minutes of baking; you want the cheese golden but not burnt. Every oven varies a bit!
- Remember to scoop out enough flesh to leave a sturdy wall – too much filling can lead to soggy boats.
Using these tips will help you serve zucchini boats that are perfectly tender and full of flavor!
Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara sauce or tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 25-30 minutes to bake in the oven. Total time to enjoy these delicious zucchini boats is about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to cook the zucchini perfectly!
2. Prepare the Zucchinis:
Wash the zucchinis well and cut each one in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the centers with a spoon, leaving about a 1/4 inch wall around the edges. Set the scooped-out flesh aside for later.
3. Brush the Zucchini Boats:
Lightly brush the insides of the zucchini boats with olive oil. This adds flavor and helps with cooking. Place the boats in a baking dish, ready for the filling!
4. Cook the Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. Add in the minced garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
5. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it is nicely browned and fully cooked through. No pink should be left!
6. Mix in the Zucchini Flesh:
Finely chop the reserved zucchini flesh and stir it into the beef mixture. This adds moisture and flavor to your filling.
7. Add Sauce and Seasoning:
Pour in the marinara sauce along with the Italian seasoning. Mix everything together well, then give it a taste and season with salt and pepper as desired. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes to combine the flavors.
8. Fill the Zucchini Boats:
Spoon the beef mixture generously into each zucchini boat, filling them to the top. Don’t be shy; these boats are meant to be hearty!
9. Top with Cheese:
Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over all the filled zucchini boats. The more cheese, the better!
10. Bake Perfectly:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The zucchinis should be tender, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly with a lovely golden brown crust.
11. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.
12. Enjoy!
Serve the zucchini boats warm, and consider pairing them with a crisp side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious, hearty, and healthy Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version. Adjust the cooking times slightly if needed, especially for leaner meats.
How Can I Store Leftover Zucchini Boats?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Freeze These Zucchini Boats?
Yes! These zucchini boats freeze well. Allow them to cool completely after baking, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Should I Serve with Zucchini Boats?
These boats make a fantastic standalone meal, but for a complete dinner, serve them with a side salad, some garlic bread, or a light pasta dish to balance the flavors!
