Stuffed Cheese Zucchini Boats (Printable)

Zucchini filled with a hearty, cheesy blend of spiced meat and veggies, baked until golden and satisfying.

# Components:

→ Produce

01 - 4 medium zucchini
02 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
05 - Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

→ Meat

06 - 300 g (10 oz) ground beef or turkey

→ Pantry

07 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
08 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
09 - 1 teaspoon dried basil
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
12 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
13 - 200 g (7 oz) canned diced tomatoes, drained

→ Dairy

14 - 100 g (1 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese
15 - 50 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
02 - Slice zucchini in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the center flesh with a spoon, creating a 1/2 cm thick shell. Reserve the scooped flesh and chop it finely.
03 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
04 - Add the diced bell pepper and the reserved chopped zucchini flesh to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables have softened.
05 - Add ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it is completely browned and cooked through.
06 - Stir in dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and the drained diced tomatoes. Simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture has slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
07 - Arrange the zucchini halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Evenly distribute the prepared filling among the zucchini boats.
08 - Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the stuffed zucchini.
09 - Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese topping is melted and golden brown.
10 - Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley, and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses inexpensive and fresh seasonal ingredients
  • Ready in under an hour and simple to prepare
  • Gluten-free and easily adapted for low carb or vegetarian diets
  • Kid-approved healthy comfort food that feels indulgent yet nourishing
02 -
  • High in protein and low in carbs
  • Kid-friendly and versatile enough for picky eaters
  • Perfect for meal prep as leftovers keep well
03 -
  • Always taste the filling before stuffing so you can adjust the seasoning
  • Draining the tomatoes well is vital or the filling can get soggy
  • Grate your own cheese if you can it melts more evenly and gives the best flavor
  • If the zucchini boats seem too wobbly trim a thin slice from the bottom to steady them on the tray

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