Ground Beef Cheese Stuffed Zucchini

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Transform humble zucchini into a gourmet delight with our Ground Beef Cheese Stuffed Zucchini recipe. This dish balances the savory richness of seasoned beef, the creamy indulgence of melted cheese, and the fresh, tender flavor of zucchini. Ideal for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings, this recipe brings restaurant-quality taste to your table with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash the zucchinis and slice them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/4-inch thickness to form a sturdy “boat.” Reserve the scooped flesh for the filling.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.

Add the reserved zucchini flesh, tomato sauce, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 3: Assemble the Zucchini Boats

Place the hollowed-out zucchini halves in a baking dish. Fill each zucchini boat generously with the beef mixture. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden crust.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish the stuffed zucchinis with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve them hot alongside a crisp salad or warm garlic bread for a complete meal. Watch as your guests marvel at the combination of flavors and textures in every bite.

Chef’s Tips

• For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a subtle heat.
• Swap out mozzarella for cheddar or gouda for a different cheesy twist.
• If you prefer a lower-carb option, skip the tomato sauce and add a dollop of sour cream when serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Our Ground Beef Cheese Stuffed Zucchini isn’t just delicious; it’s versatile and nutritious. The zucchini serves as a low-carb vessel that’s brimming with protein-packed beef and melted cheese. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up extra vegetables, making it a sustainable and family-friendly choice.