These Easy Cheesy Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a fun twist on tacos! You’ll enjoy zesty ground meat, spices, and cheese stuffed into fresh zucchini halves—yum!
They make a great meal that feels light but filling. I love serving them with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro. It’s like taco night, but healthier! 🌮💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star of the dish! Look for medium-sized zucchinis that feel firm. If you’re out of zucchini, consider using bell peppers or eggplant for stuffing!
Ground Meat: I often use ground turkey because it’s leaner, but ground beef adds more flavor. For a vegetarian option, try black beans or lentils as a protein substitute.
Taco Seasoning: Pre-packaged mixes are convenient, but you can make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. It gives you more control over flavors!
Cheese: A Mexican blend is perfect, but can substitute with cheddar or pepper jack for a kick! If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast.
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini Boats Aren’t Soggy?
Keeping your zucchini boats from getting soggy is super important. Here’s how to do it:
- First, scoop out the flesh gently, not too deeply, to maintain structure.
- Salting the insides of the zucchini before filling them can draw out extra moisture. Just sprinkle a light bit of salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes, then pat dry.
- Cook the fillings until they’re not too watery. Letting them simmer until thick helps prevent sogginess!
By following these tips, you’ll have the perfect taco stuffed zucchini boats that are full of flavor and nicely on the firm side!
Easy Cheesy Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1/2 cup water
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes of cooking time. So, you’ll be serving these tasty zucchini boats in about 30 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your zucchini boats bake evenly and get a nice bubbly cheese topping!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Take your zucchinis and cut them in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, gently scoop out the center flesh, leaving about a 1/4-inch thick shell. Don’t toss the pieces you scooped out, as you’ll need them for the filling!
3. Cook the Beef and Onions:
In a large skillet set to medium heat, add your ground beef (or turkey) along with the diced onions. Cook this mixture until the beef is browned and the onions are soft and translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess grease, drain it off to keep the dish lighter.
4. Add the Zucchini Flesh:
Now, add the finely chopped zucchini flesh into your skillet and stir it in. Cook for about 2 minutes so it can soften and mix well with the beef and onions.
5. Season the Filling:
Stir in the taco seasoning and add 1/2 cup of water. Let this simmer on medium heat until most of the liquid is absorbed and the mixture thickens—this should take about 5 minutes.
6. Stuff the Zucchini Boats:
Take the flavorful taco mixture and spoon it evenly into your hollowed zucchini boats. Make sure to fill them generously for the best flavor!
7. Add Cheese and Bake:
Place the stuffed zucchini boats on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top of each boat. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Final Touches:
After baking, remove your zucchini boats from the oven. Top each one with halved cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious taco stuffed zucchini boats warm, and feel free to add optional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa for an extra tasty touch!
Enjoy these cheesy, flavorful taco zucchini boats that combine all the best taco ingredients in a fresh, healthy way!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Different Proteins?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work great in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is properly cooked.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or use the microwave in short intervals until hot.
Can I Make These Zucchini Boats Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Substitute the meat with black beans, lentils, or a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and corn for a delicious vegetarian option.
What Should I Serve With These Zucchini Boats?
These boats are delicious on their own, but you can pair them with a side salad or tortilla chips and salsa for a complete meal!
