Go Back

Ground Beef Zucchini Boats

Delicious zucchini boats filled with savory ground beef, rice, marinara sauce, and topped with melted cheese—a perfect comforting meal for family gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Zucchini and Filling
  • 4 medium medium zucchinis Choose firm, fresh ones
  • 1 pound ground beef Grassy or grass-fed for flavor
  • 1 cup cooked rice Or swap for quinoa for a healthy twist
  • 1 cup marinara sauce Homemade if you’re up for it!
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Feel free to use your favorite cheese blend
Aromatics and Seasoning
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Or your favorite herb mix
  • Salt and pepper To taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon, creating a boat-like shape. Set hollowed zucchinis aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion in a splash of olive oil until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  6. Stir in the cooked rice and marinara sauce until well combined and heated through.
  7. Carefully spoon the beef mixture into the zucchini halves, packing it generously.
Cooking
  1. Place the filled zucchinis on a baking dish and top each with a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until zucchini is tender and cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  3. Remove from the oven, allow to cool, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave for a quick fix. These zucchini boats freeze beautifully for up to three months.