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Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats

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Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are a low-carb, high-protein dish featuring zucchini halves stuffed with a savory ground beef filling, seasoned with Italian herbs, and topped with melted cheese. It’s a healthy, customizable meal that’s perfect for weeknights or meal prep.

  • Author: Tina
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

6 small to medium zucchinis

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, finely diced

1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork, or ground turkey)

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional)

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or dried oregano)

½ teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves freshly minced garlic)

½ teaspoon salt (or more to taste)

Pepper to taste

1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

1 ½ cups shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or Gouda)

Instructions

  1. Wash 6 zucchinis and slice them in half lengthwise. Scoop out the flesh with a small spoon and set aside. Place zucchini halves on a baking sheet.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  3. Stir in tomato paste, fresh basil, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce and scooped-out zucchini flesh (chopped for an even mixture). Simmer covered on low heat for 10 minutes, then remove the lid and simmer for another 5 minutes to thicken.
  5. Preheat oven to 360°F (182°C). Spoon the filling into the zucchini halves. Top with shredded cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until zucchini is tender and cheese is bubbly and golden.
  6. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Swap ground beef for pork, turkey, or a mix of meats to suit your preference.
  • For different seasonings, try taco seasoning, smoked paprika, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
  • Try a mix of mozzarella and parmesan for a different flavor, or omit the cheese for a lighter version.
  • For a vegetarian option, use lentils or beans as a meat substitute.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cheftinaskitchen.com/easy-ground-beef-zucchini-boats/