Go Back
Juicy zucchini halves loaded with a savory ground beef mixture and cheese, captured on a plate.

Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef

A delicious low-carb meal featuring tender zucchini filled with savory ground beef and melted cheese, perfect for a quick dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

Vegetables

  • 4 medium zucchinis halved and scooped
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 red bell pepper red bell pepper diced
  • 1 lb ground beef

Canned Goods

  • 14 oz diced tomatoes drained
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

Herbs & Spices

  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 0.5 tsp chili flakes optional
  • to taste Salt and pepper

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Halve zucchinis, scoop out centers, and chop flesh.
  • Arrange zucchinis in baking dish, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, and season.
  • Cook onion, garlic, and bell pepper; add chopped zucchini flesh. Add beef and cook until browned. Stir in tomatoes, tomato paste, herbs, and seasonings; simmer 5 mins.
  • Fill zucchini shells with beef mixture, top with cheeses, and bake 20–25 mins until golden. Garnish with parsley or basil before serving.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms.
Keyword ground beef, zucchini