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–+ servings
Close-up of baked zucchini boats filled with seasoned ground beef and topped with melted cheese.

Baked Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Cheese

A simple and satisfying recipe for zucchini boats filled with seasoned ground beef and topped with melted cheese.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 boats
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Zucchini Boats
  • 2 large zucchini halved lengthwise
For the Filling
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
For the Topping
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Skillet
  • Knife
  • Spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh from the zucchini halves to create a boat shape. Discard the scooped-out flesh or save for another use.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  4. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Pour in the tomato sauce and stir to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Spoon the ground beef mixture evenly into the hollowed-out zucchini boats.
  8. Place the filled zucchini boats on the prepared baking sheet.
  9. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.
  10. Remove from the oven, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of each boat.
  11. Return to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  12. Serve hot.

Notes

You can add other vegetables to the filling, such as chopped bell peppers or mushrooms. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

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