Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats
Savory and tender zucchini halves filled with seasoned ground beef, tomato sauce, and melted cheese. A quick 35-minute baked dinner with balanced flavors and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 pound ground beef (85/15 recommended)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- Using a spoon, scoop out zucchini flesh to create 6 halves with 1/4-1/2 inch thick shells
- Toss zucchini boats with olive oil, salt, and pepper
- Arrange on baking sheet and roast for 10 minutes
- While zucchini bakes, heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat
- Add ground beef, cooking until browned (8-10 minutes)
- Add onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt; cook 3-4 minutes
- Stir in tomato sauce and simmer 5 minutes
- Spoon beef mixture into zucchini boats
- Top evenly with mozzarella cheese
- Return to oven and bake 15 minutes, or until cheese is golden and zucchini is tender
Notes
Use a mandoline for precise zucchini shells
Substitute Greek yogurt for mozzarella or vegan cheese
For extra moisture, add a teaspoon of water to tomato sauce
Brush zucchini with 1/2 tablespoon of beef fat (if using) for richer flavor
Substitute Greek yogurt for mozzarella or vegan cheese
For extra moisture, add a teaspoon of water to tomato sauce
Brush zucchini with 1/2 tablespoon of beef fat (if using) for richer flavor
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 21gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6g
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