Beef Stuffed Zucchini Recipe
This beef stuffed zucchini recipe is a wholesome and delicious dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Packed with flavorful ground beef, aromatic herbs, and melted cheese, it’s a low-carb option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
These stuffed zucchinis are tender yet hearty, combining the freshness of zucchini with the savory goodness of seasoned beef. The melted cheese on top creates a golden, bubbly crust that makes each bite irresistible.
Tools to Use
- Baking dish
- Spoon or melon baller
- Skillet
- Cutting board and knife
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the centers using a spoon or melon baller, creating zucchini “boats.” Reserve the scooped-out flesh for later use.
- Lightly brush the zucchini halves with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
2. Cook the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Add the reserved zucchini flesh, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Stuff the Zucchini:
- Spoon the beef mixture evenly into the zucchini boats.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
4. Bake the Zucchini:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
5. Serve:
- Garnish the stuffed zucchinis with fresh parsley.
- Serve warm with a side salad or crusty bread.
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Beef Stuffed Zucchini Recipe
This beef stuffed zucchini recipe is a wholesome and delicious dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Packed with flavorful ground beef, aromatic herbs, and melted cheese, it’s a low-carb option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Equipment
- Baking dish
- Spoon or melon baller
- Skillet
- Cutting board and knife
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes canned or fresh
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the centers using a spoon or melon baller, creating zucchini “boats.” Reserve the scooped-out flesh for later use.
- Lightly brush the zucchini halves with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
- Cook the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Add the reserved zucchini flesh, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Stuff the Zucchini:
- Spoon the beef mixture evenly into the zucchini boats.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake the Zucchini:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish the stuffed zucchinis with fresh parsley.
- Serve warm with a side salad or crusty bread.
Tips for Cooking
- Choose Fresh Zucchini: Look for zucchinis that are firm and medium-sized for easy stuffing.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for extra heat.
- Cheese Variations: Swap mozzarella for cheddar or provolone for a different flavor profile.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This beef stuffed zucchini is a balanced meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite seasonings and cheeses, making it a family favorite.
Enjoy the perfect blend of flavors with this hearty and satisfying beef stuffed zucchini recipe. Whether for a cozy dinner or a meal prep option, this dish is sure to impress!
