Description
Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are a wholesome and flavorful low-carb meal featuring hollowed zucchinis stuffed with a savory mixture of ground beef, onions, garlic, and Italian seasonings, topped with melted cheese. This keto-friendly and gluten-free dish is baked to perfection, offering a protein-packed, easy-to-make dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Zucchini Boats
- 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise and scooped out to create “boats”
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Filling
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or parmesan)
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise, then use a spoon to scoop out the centers, creating hollow boats. Lightly brush the zucchini halves with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and arrange them on a baking sheet. Pre-bake for 5-7 minutes until they soften slightly.
- Cook the Beef Filling: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors thoroughly.
- Assemble and Bake: Spoon the beef mixture evenly into the pre-baked zucchini boats. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over each filled zucchini. Place back into the oven and bake for 15 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly and golden.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately with your preferred sides for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but regular ground beef works as well.
- You can substitute tomato sauce with marinara or canned diced tomatoes for variety.
- For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
- Feel free to swap shredded cheese types according to preference—mozzarella offers a mild taste while parmesan adds a nuttier flavor.
- Leftover zucchini boats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
