Description
Meaty Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a delicious and hearty dish where zucchini is hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground meat and other flavorful ingredients
Baked until tender and golden this recipe combines the freshness of zucchini with rich and satisfying meat filling making it perfect for a wholesome meal or a comforting dinner option
Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef, 1 large chopped onion, 1 large chopped green pepper, 1 seeded and chopped jalapeno pepper, 1 1/4 cups soft breadcrumbs, 1 beaten egg, 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and one 8-ounce can of tomato sauce
Stir in 2 coarsely chopped medium tomatoes
Halve 4 to 5 medium zucchinis lengthwise
Spoon the remaining 8-ounce can of tomato sauce
Sprinkle 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
In a large bowl combine 1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef 1 large chopped onion 1 large chopped green pepper 1 seeded and chopped jalapeno pepper 1 1/4 cups soft breadcrumbs 1 beaten egg 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes 1 teaspoon dried basil 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper and one 8-ounce can of tomato sauce mix well
Stir in 2 coarsely chopped medium tomatoes
Halve 4 to 5 medium zucchinis lengthwise scoop out the center part of each zucchini to about 1/4 inch from the edges
Fill each zucchini half with the meat mixture and place them in two 13×9 inch baking dishes
Spoon the remaining 8-ounce can of tomato sauce over each
Bake uncovered at 375 degrees for 45 minutes or until the zucchini is tender
Sprinkle 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese over the zucchinis during the last few minutes of baking
Notes
Meaty Stuffed Zucchini Boats are best served fresh
Avoid overcooking zucchini to keep texture firm
Let boats rest after baking for flavors to meld
Use a spoon to carefully hollow zucchini without breaking walls
Try to evenly distribute filling for consistent taste
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 45