Description

A quick, low-carb weeknight dinner featuring tender zucchini shells stuffed with savory, seasoned ground beef and topped with melted cheese for a crispy, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

4 medium zucchini
1 pound 80/20 ground beef
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup marinara sauce or crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons panko or regular breadcrumbs (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry zucchini, then slice in half lengthwise. Scoop out the center flesh with a spoon, leaving a 1/4-inch border. Place hollowed zucchini cut-side up in a baking dish. Dice the scooped-out flesh.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula (5-7 minutes). Drain excess grease if necessary, leaving a little for flavor.
Add diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the diced zucchini flesh and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
Add tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Spoon the beef mixture generously into each zucchini boat, packing it down slightly.
Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese over each boat. Add breadcrumbs if using.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden, and zucchini is tender. Broil for 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness if desired.
Let rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving.

Notes

Drain excess grease from the beef to prevent soggy boats. For extra crispiness, salt the zucchini shells and let sit for 10 minutes before scooping, then pat dry. Ensure the filling is thick before stuffing to avoid watery results.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 zucchini halves pe
Calories: 275
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 450
Fat: 18
Saturated Fat: 8
Carbohydrates: 8
Fiber: 2
Protein: 22

Keywords: zucchini boats, ground beef recipe, low carb dinner, keto friendly, easy weeknight meals, healthy dinner, gluten free recipes