Ground Beef Zucchini Boats

Name: Ground Beef Zucchini Boats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis; 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., mozzarella or cheddar)

Jena Ellison

Update : May 6, 2026

Delicious ground beef zucchini boats topped with cheese and herbs

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why make this recipe

Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a meal. They are simple to make and packed with flavor. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a fun family dinner. The zucchini boats are not only nutritious but also a great way to use up fresh vegetables. Plus, they are customizable to suit your taste, making them a hit for everyone at the table.

how to make Ground Beef Zucchini Boats

Ingredients :

4 medium zucchinis
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., mozzarella or cheddar)

Directions :

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the center to create boats.
In a skillet, brown the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat.
Add Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and marinara sauce to the beef mixture, stirring well.
Spoon the beef mixture into the hollowed-out zucchinis.
Top with shredded cheese.
Place the zucchini boats in a baking dish and cover with foil.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot.

how to serve Ground Beef Zucchini Boats

Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are best served warm. You can serve them as a main dish alongside a fresh salad or bread. They also make a great meal prep option for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

how to store Ground Beef Zucchini Boats

To store leftover Zucchini Boats, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them before baking. Just thaw and bake when you’re ready to enjoy them.

tips to make Ground Beef Zucchini Boats

Make sure to scoop out enough of the zucchini to allow for a good filling.
You can add other veggies, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to the beef mixture for extra flavor.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique taste.

variation

For a lighter option, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also make a vegetarian version by using black beans or lentils instead of meat.

FAQs

Can I use other types of vegetables instead of zucchini?
Yes, you can use bell peppers, eggplants, or even tomatoes as a base for this recipe.

How do I know when the zucchini boats are done?
The zucchini is done when it is tender and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the zucchini boats.