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Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats (Healthy and Delicious) Recipe

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  • Author: Sue
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

These Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are a healthy and delicious low-carb meal option featuring tender zucchini filled with a savory ground beef and tomato sauce mixture, all topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe combines fresh vegetables and hearty protein for a flavorful dish that's simple to prepare and bake in under 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 4 medium zucchinis (halved lengthwise and scooped out to create "boats")
  • 1 small onion (diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Meat & Dairy

  • 1 pound ground beef (lean)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or parmesan)

Other Ingredients

  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Zucchini: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the center flesh using a spoon to create hollow boats for the filling. Lightly brush the hollowed zucchini halves with olive oil and arrange them on a baking sheet. Pre-bake the zucchini boats for 5-7 minutes to soften them slightly, which helps prevent sogginess after filling.
  2. Cook the Beef Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors well.
  3. Assemble & Bake: Spoon the cooked beef mixture evenly into each pre-baked zucchini boat. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top of each filled zucchini. Return the loaded zucchini boats to the oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
  4. Serve & Enjoy: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, for an added burst of flavor. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes and enjoy a nutritious, satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and calories.
  • Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken as a lighter option.
  • For extra flavor, add finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture.
  • You can prepare the zucchini boats and filling ahead of time and bake just before serving.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
  • Gluten-free if using gluten-free tomato sauce and seasonings.

Find it online: https://suerecipe.com/easy-ground-beef-zucchini-boats-healthy-and-delicious-recipe/