30-Min Ground Beef Zucchini Boats Recipe
This easy and flavorful 30-Minute Ground Beef Zucchini Boats recipe transforms fresh zucchinis into savory, hearty meals filled with a delicious ground beef mixture and topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Zucchini Boats
- 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise and scooped out to create “boats”
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Beef Filling
- 1 pound ground beef (lean ground beef recommended)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or parmesan)
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the centers with a spoon to make hollow “boats.” Lightly brush each zucchini half with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet. Pre-bake the zucchini boats for 5 to 7 minutes to soften them slightly before adding the filling.
- Cook the Beef Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5 minutes to marry the flavors.
- Assemble & Bake: Evenly spoon the beef mixture into each pre-baked zucchini boat. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top of the filled zucchinis. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Serve & Enjoy: Garnish the zucchini boats with fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately while warm, paired with your favorite side dishes for a delicious, balanced meal.
Notes
- Lean ground beef is preferred to reduce excess fat but any ground beef can be used.
- Feel free to customize the cheese type based on preference; mozzarella offers a mild melt while cheddar adds sharpness.
- Pre-baking the zucchini ensures they are tender and not watery when filled.
- Fresh herbs such as basil or parsley add a vibrant finishing touch.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for larger groups.
Keywords: ground beef zucchini boats, stuffed zucchini recipe, easy beef dinner, low carb zucchini boats, quick weeknight meal
