Go Back
Sliced zucchini filled with ground beef, topped with mozzarella and garnished with parsley.

Ground Beef Zucchini Boats

Enjoy these healthy and flavorful zucchini boats filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Vegetables

  • 4 medium zucchini
  • 1 lb ground beef (85–90% lean)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice zucchini lengthwise, scoop out centers to create boats, and reserve pulp.
  • Place zucchini boats in a baking dish, brush with olive oil, season, and bake for 10 minutes.
  • Cook onion and garlic in olive oil until soft, then add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in seasonings, zucchini pulp, and marinara; simmer 5–7 minutes.
  • Fill zucchini boats with beef mixture, top with cheese, and bake for 15–20 minutes until tender and bubbly.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Notes

For a lower sodium version, reduce salt and use low-sodium marinara.
Keyword ground beef, zucchini