Beef Stuffed Zucchini Recipe

Ready in under 30 minutes! This recipe for Beef Stuffed Zucchini Boats combines microwave and stovetop cooking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful weeknight dinner. Juicy beef filling nestled in tender zucchini halves – it's a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Calories 490.7 kcal
Protein 73g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Beef Stuffed Zucchini

Recipe Actions

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Beef Stuffed Zucchini

  • 2 medium zucchini (about 1 pound total)
  • Lean Ground Beef
  • Sweet Onion
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • Seasoned Bread Crumbs
  • Salt And Pepper
  • Monterey Jack Cheese

How to Make Beef Stuffed Zucchini

  1. Preheat your microwave and set a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cut zucchini in half lengthwise. Cut a thin slice from the bottom of each so they sit flat.
  3. Using a spoon, scoop out the pulp, leaving a 1/4-inch shell. Finely chop the scooped-out zucchini pulp and set aside.
  4. Place zucchini shells in an ungreased 13x9 inch microwave-safe dish.
  5. Microwave on high for 3 minutes, then flip and microwave for another 2 minutes, or until slightly softened but still firm. Remove and set aside.
  6. (If using) Add olive oil to the skillet. Add chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  7. Add ground beef to the skillet; cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes).
  8. Drain off any excess grease from the skillet.
  9. Stir in the chopped zucchini pulp, beaten egg, marinara sauce, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper.
  10. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture into each zucchini shell.
  11. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese evenly over the stuffed zucchini.
  12. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 4-5 minutes.
  13. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.
  14. Microwave for another 3-4 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly (internal temperature should reach 160°F).
  15. Let stand for a few minutes before serving. Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping (optional).

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

35 g

Sugar

65g

Fat

57g

Carbs

9g