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Zucchini Boats

Tender zucchini halves stuffed with savory ground beef, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese for a healthy, low-carb dinner option.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium zucchini
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Skillet
  • Mixing spoon
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice zucchinis lengthwise and scoop out the center flesh to form boats. Place them on a baking sheet.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until soft. Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs, and cook until browned.
  3. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Spoon the meat mixture into each zucchini boat. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top.
  5. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
  6. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, replace meat with cooked quinoa, beans, and corn. Zucchini boats can be made ahead and frozen before baking.