Are you tired of the same old zucchini recipes? Do you want to add some excitement to your meal routine? Look no further! Zucchini boats are a creative and delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. By hollowing out the insides of zucchinis and filling them with a variety of ingredients, you can create a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering zucchini boat recipes that combine ground beef and cheese for a hearty and satisfying dish. From classic Italian-inspired flavors to spicy Mexican twists, these recipes are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, we’ve got you covered.
Classic Italian Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet satisfying recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Tender zucchinis filled with a rich ground beef and tomato mixture will become a new family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add tomato sauce and bring to a simmer; let cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture and top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Place boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican-Style Zucchini Boats with Spicy Ground Beef
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed zucchinis, these Mexican-Style Zucchini Boats are filled with spicy ground beef and cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, and taco seasoning to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Place stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with vegetable oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef and Zucchini Boats
This recipe takes the classic combination of ground beef, cheese, and vegetables to new heights by using zucchinis as “boats” instead of traditional pasta or rice. The result is a nutritious, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides to create “boats.” Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Divide the beef mixture among the zucchini boats, topping each with shredded cheese.
6. Drizzle with milk and sprinkle with paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Greek-Inspired Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Feta
This recipe combines the flavors of Greece with the simplicity of zucchini boats, creating a delicious and healthy meal. The ground beef and feta add a rich and savory element to this vegetarian dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture and top with crumbled feta cheese.
6. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with dried oregano.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Marinara Sauce
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe features zucchinis hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground beef and marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture, then top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Place the boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Loaded Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Cheddar
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this savory and satisfying recipe that combines the flavors of ground beef, cheddar cheese, and zucchini. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Mushroom Gravy
Transform zucchinis into flavorful boats filled with savory ground beef and mushroom gravy, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe combines the best of both worlds – tender vegetables and hearty meat.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise, scoop out insides, and place on a baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, mushrooms, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is fully incorporated and the onions are translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the zucchinis and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tex-Mex Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Black Beans
Elevate your taco Tuesday game with these flavorful zucchini boats packed with seasoned ground beef, black beans, and melted cheese. A healthier twist on traditional tacos, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, cilantro, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, and taco seasoning to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the beef mixture, followed by black beans and shredded cheese.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the boats and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Parmesan Crust
Transform zucchinis into flavorful boats filled with ground beef and topped with a crispy Parmesan crust.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the tops of the zucchinis.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Spinach Filling
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stuffed zucchinis, this recipe combines ground beef, spinach, and Mediterranean spices for a delicious main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, spinach, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until spinach is wilted.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture and top with feta cheese (if using).
6. Place the boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Roasted Red Peppers
Transform zucchinis into a flavorful boat filled with ground beef, roasted red peppers, and creamy cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup roasted red peppers (canned or homemade), diced
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add garlic, roasted red peppers, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir well.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the beef mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
6. Top each boat with shredded cheese and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Place the boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Creamy Garlic Sauce
Transform zucchinis into flavorful boats filled with juicy ground beef and a rich garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup creamy garlic sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Spoon the creamy garlic sauce over the top of each boat.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Jalapeño Kick
A twist on traditional zucchini boats, this recipe adds a kick of jalapeño pepper to the flavorful ground beef filling. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and jalapeño to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Bacon Topping
Savor the flavors of summer with this delightful twist on traditional boats! This recipe combines tender zucchinis filled with savory ground beef and topped with crispy bacon for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 6 slices of bacon, chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a pan, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Top each boat with a spoonful of chopped bacon.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Herb Breadcrumbs
Transform zucchinis into a flavorful and nutritious meal by hollowing them out and filling them with savory ground beef and herby breadcrumbs. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup herb breadcrumbs (Italian seasoning and parsley)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture, mounding it slightly in the center.
6. Top each boat with a spoonful of herb breadcrumbs and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Place the boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
These flavorful zucchini boats are a delicious twist on traditional stuffed peppers. With the added richness of ground beef and sweet sun-dried tomatoes, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture and top with shredded mozzarella cheese (if using).
6. Place the boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Ricotta Cheese
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed zucchinis, this recipe combines ground beef, ricotta cheese, and herbs to create a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving about 1/4 inch thick walls.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture, followed by a dollop of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of oregano.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Pesto Drizzle
Transform zucchinis into boats filled with savory ground beef and topped with a flavorful pesto drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pesto drizzle (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise, scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture, topping with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
6. Drizzle the pesto sauce over the top of each boat and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Caramelized Onions
Transform zucchinis into flavorful boats filled with a hearty ground beef and caramelized onion mixture. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add sliced onions to the skillet and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat and onion mixture, topping with mozzarella cheese if using.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Smoked Gouda
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed zucchini, this recipe combines tender summer squash with savory ground beef and melted smoked gouda. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the beef mixture, followed by a sprinkle of smoked Gouda cheese.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouth-watering zucchini boat recipes that combine the flavors of ground beef and cheese! From classic Italian-inspired dishes to spicy Tex-Mex creations, these recipes offer a variety of flavor profiles to satisfy any palate. With ingredients like Parmesan crust, roasted red peppers, and creamy garlic sauce, you’ll find the perfect combination to delight your taste buds. Get cooking with these simple yet impressive zucchini boat recipes that are sure to become new family favorites!
