Name: Stuffed Zucchini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: healthy
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 pound ground beef or turkey; 1 tomato, diced; 1/2 cup cooked rice or breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

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Stuffed zucchini is a classic, hearty dish that combines tender zucchini with a flavorful filling of ground meat, vegetables, rice or breadcrumbs, and melty cheese. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner, a satisfying side dish, or even a dish to impress guests at a family gathering. The combination of textures—from the soft zucchini to the cheesy, savory filling—makes every bite comforting and delicious.

Stuffed Zucchini

Why you’ll love this recipe

because it’s versatile, balanced, and packed with flavor while still being simple enough to make any night of the week. The dish is naturally low-carb if you skip the rice or use a small amount, and the Italian seasonings bring a warm, aromatic touch that pairs perfectly with the melty cheeses on top.

Ingredients

4 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 pound ground beef or turkey
1 tomato, diced
1/2 cup cooked rice or breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Tip: You can find full ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Scoop out the insides of the zucchini halves to create boats, leaving about 1/4 inch of flesh around the skins. Chop the scooped-out flesh and set aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened. Add the ground meat and chopped zucchini flesh, cooking until the meat is browned.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice or breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few more minutes, ensuring everything is well combined.
Spoon the mixture into the hollowed-out zucchini halves, packing it tightly. Place the stuffed zucchini in a baking dish.
Sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the stuffed zucchini.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Allow the zucchini to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Variations

Use ground chicken or sausage instead of beef or turkey.
Add finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the filling for extra vegetables.
Swap the cheeses for a combination of feta and cheddar for a tangy twist.
Use quinoa instead of rice or breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.

Heating and Storage

Storage: Store leftover stuffed zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

FAQ

1. Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, replace the meat with a mixture of mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives.

2. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely, you can assemble the zucchini boats a day in advance and store them in the fridge before baking.

3. Can I use another type of cheese?

Yes, you can use cheddar, provolone, or even vegan cheese alternatives.

4. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, 1/2 cup of diced canned tomatoes works well. Drain excess liquid to avoid soggy filling.

5. Can I make this low-carb?

Yes, skip the rice or breadcrumbs and add extra vegetables to keep it low-carb.

6. How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming mushy?

Don’t overcook the zucchini before stuffing. Keeping a 1/4 inch thick shell ensures it stays firm while baking.

7. Can I freeze stuffed zucchini?

Yes, assemble and freeze before baking. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time as needed.

8. Can I make mini stuffed zucchini boats?

Yes, small zucchini or zucchini rounds can be used as bite-sized appetizers.

9. Can I use Italian sausage in the filling?

Yes, it adds extra flavor and spices to the dish. Adjust seasonings accordingly.

10. What can I serve with stuffed zucchini?

A simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair beautifully with stuffed zucchini.

Conclusion

Stuffed zucchini is a comforting, flavorful, and versatile dish that everyone will enjoy. With its cheesy, savory filling and tender zucchini base, it makes for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Whether you stick to the classic filling or get creative with vegetables and spices, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Chef sara