Description
Learn how to make delicious Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats with this simple recipe. Perfect for a quick and healthy dinner option!
Ingredients
- – 6 small-medium zucchini (about 900g)
- – 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
- – 1 onion, finely diced
- – 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- – 2 tablespoons (30ml) tomato paste
- – 2 tablespoons (30ml) chopped fresh basil, optional
- – 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried Italian herbs or dried oregano
- – 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) garlic powder or 2 cloves freshly minced
- – 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) salt or more to taste
- – pepper to taste
- – 1 (15oz) can (425g) tomato sauce
- – 1.5 cups (150g) shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or Gouda)
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini by giving them a good wash, then slice each one lengthwise. Use a small spoon to remove the insides and set them aside. Arrange the zucchini halves on a baking tray.
- In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes soft. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned thoroughly. Mix in the tomato paste, fresh basil, dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- For the filling, pour in the can of tomato sauce and the reserved zucchini insides (chop them if you want a smoother filling). Let it simmer with the lid on over low heat for 10 minutes. Take off the lid, stir properly, and allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 360°F. Fill the zucchini halves with the prepared mixture. Top them with the shredded cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes until they are bubbly.
Notes
- Consider using lean ground beef or turkey for a healthier option to reduce the fat content.
- Mix and match different types of cheese like mozzarella and cheddar for a unique flavor profile.
- For a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.