Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Short Description

Stuffed zucchini boats are a wholesome and flavorful dish made by hollowing out zucchinis and filling them with a savory mixture of meat, vegetables, seasonings, and cheese. Baked until tender and golden, they are as nutritious as they are satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A creative way to enjoy zucchini in a hearty main dish.

• Flexible and customizable—perfect for different diets and tastes.

• Balanced with protein, vegetables, and cheesy goodness.

• A family-friendly dinner that feels comforting yet light.

• Great for making ahead and reheating during busy weeks.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Zucchinis (medium to large, halved lengthwise)

• Olive oil

• Ground meat (beef, turkey, chicken, or sausage) or plant-based substitute

• Onion and garlic, finely chopped

• Marinara sauce or tomato sauce

• Italian seasoning or herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

• Salt and pepper

• Mozzarella cheese, shredded

• Parmesan cheese, grated

• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Slice zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh with a spoon, leaving a thin border. Reserve some flesh for the filling.

3. Place zucchini shells on a baking dish and brush lightly with olive oil. Bake for 10 minutes to soften.

4. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add ground meat and cook until browned.

5. Stir in reserved zucchini flesh, marinara sauce, and herbs. Simmer for 5 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper.

6. Spoon the filling into zucchini shells. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

7. Return to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until zucchini is tender and cheese is golden and bubbly.

8. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Mediterranean Style: Add olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes.

• Mexican Style: Use taco seasoning, black beans, and top with salsa and cheddar.

• Vegetarian: Skip the meat and use quinoa, lentils, or mushrooms as the base.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or in the microwave until warm.

• Freezing is not recommended, as zucchini may become watery, but you can freeze the filling separately for up to 2 months.

FAQs

1. Can I make stuffed zucchini boats ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the boats a day in advance. Bake just before serving.

2. How do I prevent zucchini from becoming soggy?

Pre-bake the zucchini shells for a few minutes and avoid overfilling with watery ingredients.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely—use lentils, beans, or quinoa instead of meat.

4. What type of zucchini works best?

Medium to large zucchinis are ideal, as they provide enough room for filling without being too watery.

5. Can I freeze stuffed zucchini boats?

It’s best not to freeze assembled boats, but you can freeze the filling separately.

6. What cheese is best for topping?

Mozzarella melts beautifully, while Parmesan adds flavor. Cheddar, feta, or a Mexican blend also work.

7. Can I cook zucchini boats in the air fryer?

Yes, cook at 375°F for about 12–15 minutes until tender and golden.

8. Do I need to peel the zucchini?

No, the skin softens during baking and helps hold the shape of the boats.

9. What sides pair well with stuffed zucchini boats?

A fresh salad, garlic bread, or pasta make excellent accompaniments.

10. How do I know when zucchini boats are done?

When the zucchini is fork-tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly, they’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Stuffed zucchini boats are a nutritious and versatile recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting yet healthy meal. With endless variations and the ability to prepare ahead, they make a perfect family dinner option that everyone will enjoy.

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