These Easy Italian Beef Zucchini Boats are tasty and full of flavor! You’ll love the juicy ground beef mixed with Italian herbs, all baked inside fresh zucchini. Yum!
It’s like a little boat of goodness! I usually pair mine with a side salad for a fun meal. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies without even noticing! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: These are the star of the dish! Choose firm, medium-sized zucchinis for the best texture. If you don’t have zucchinis, you can use bell peppers or eggplants instead. They’ll make great little boats too!
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for less grease. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option or go vegetarian with lentils or mushrooms for a tasty twist.
Marinara Sauce: Homemade is great, but jarred works just as well! If you’re out, crushed tomatoes will do. A mix of tomato sauce with herbs can also add a nice flavor.
Italian Seasoning: This blend is vital for the Italian flavor. If you have fresh herbs, they are excellent substitutes! Basil and oregano are key, but feel free to mix in your favorites.
How Do I Scoop Out the Zucchini Easily?
Scooping out zucchini can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right:
- Cut the zucchini in half, then use a small spoon or a melon baller to gently scoop out the seeds and flesh. Start from the center and work your way out.
- Leave about a 1/4-inch thick shell to hold the filling. This ensures the zucchini stays sturdy!
- Be careful not to poke through the bottom, or your filling will leak out during baking.
Practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if you don’t get it exactly right the first time!
Easy Italian Beef Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 cup marinara sauce or canned diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme mix)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
- Olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll be looking at around 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick, wholesome meal that’s simple to put together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when your zucchini boats go in!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis and then cut them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh, creating “boats.” Make sure to leave about a 1/4-inch thick shell so they can hold the filling!
3. Bake the Zucchini Shells:
Place your zucchini halves cut-side up in a baking dish. Drizzle them with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes to soften them slightly.
4. Cook the Filling:
While your zucchinis are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
5. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat in the pan, feel free to drain it off.
6. Add Sauce and Season:
Stir in the marinara sauce (or diced tomatoes), dried Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper, plus red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors together.
7. Fill the Zucchini Boats:
Carefully take the zucchini boats out of the oven. Spoon the savory beef mixture evenly into each zucchini half. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it on top of the filling now.
8. Bake Again:
Return the filled zucchini boats to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is hot.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take them out and let them cool for a minute. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and additional flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious low-carb Italian meal!
There you go! Quick, easy, and absolutely delightful! Enjoy your Italian Beef Zucchini Boats!
FAQ for Easy Italian Beef Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll have a delicious meal!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best texture.
Can I Make These Zucchini Boats Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily substitute the ground beef with a mix of cooked lentils, mushrooms, or even quinoa. Just adjust your seasoning accordingly to keep the flavors vibrant!
What Should I Serve with Zucchini Boats?
Zucchini boats make a fantastic standalone dish, but you can pair them with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A side of roasted vegetables also complements them perfectly!
