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Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are displayed as the featured image for a recipe.

Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats

These ground beef zucchini boats are a delicious and easy way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. By pre-salting the zucchini and browning the ground beef, you'll avoid soggy boats and create a rich, satisfying dish that the whole family will love. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, these zucchini boats are a perfect weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef 80/20 blend recommended
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • paper towels
  • large skillet
  • Spoon
  • Baking dish
  • Oven
  • Broiler

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Scoop out the zucchini pulp, leaving a 1/4-inch shell.
  3. Sprinkle the zucchini boats with salt and let them sit on a paper towel-lined baking sheet for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  4. Pat dry with paper towels before filling.
  5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  6. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  7. Add onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  8. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
  9. Stir in diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  11. Arrange the zucchini boats in a baking dish.
  12. Spoon the ground beef mixture evenly into each zucchini boat.
  13. Bake for 20 minutes.
  14. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the zucchini boats.
  15. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  16. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use a leaner ground beef to reduce grease. You can also add other vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms or spinach. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Broiling can quickly burn the cheese topping, so watch closely. If you prefer a softer zucchini, you can parboil the zucchini halves for a few minutes before filling.