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Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe Easy Cozy Family Dinner Idea

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A quick and easy stuffed zucchini boats recipe that is perfect for family dinners, featuring a savory meat filling, melty cheese, and fresh herbs for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium zucchinis, washed and halved lengthwise
  • 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef or turkey (or plant-based ground meat for vegetarian)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce or marinara
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and some flesh to create boats about ½ inch thick. Place the scooped flesh in a bowl.
  3. Brush the zucchini boats lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place them in a baking dish and roast for 10 minutes to soften.
  4. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  5. Add the ground meat to the skillet, breaking it up and cooking until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  6. Stir in the reserved zucchini flesh and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Pour in the tomato sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Remove the zucchini boats from the oven and spoon the meat mixture evenly into each boat. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
  8. Return the stuffed zucchini boats to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
  9. Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overstuff the zucchini boats to avoid sogginess. Roast zucchini shells first to soften but keep shape. Use a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for best cheese melt and flavor. If cheese browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil halfway through baking. Pat zucchini dry if very watery to reduce excess liquid. Multitask by cleaning while filling simmers to save time.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed zucchini boats, easy family dinner, cozy dinner, zucchini recipe, ground beef recipe, healthy dinner, low carb, gluten free

Find it online: https://lyrafeast.com/stuffed-zucchini-boats-recipe-easy-cozy-family-dinner-idea/