This easy stuffed zucchini recipe is a perfect dish for a quick and delicious dinner. The zucchini boats are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, and veggies, then topped with melted cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal. It only takes a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time to make this wholesome dish that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and flesh, leaving a hollow in each half. Reserve the zucchini flesh for later use.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add the reserved zucchini flesh, cooked rice, marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Fill each hollowed zucchini half with the beef and rice mixture, pressing it down gently to ensure it is packed.
- Place the stuffed zucchini in a baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the stuffed zucchini. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the stuffed zucchini as a main dish or as a side dish with a fresh salad.
Interesting Facts
Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that is low in calories and high in vitamins.
This recipe can be easily customized by adding vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to the stuffing mixture.
Leftover stuffed zucchini can be refrigerated and enjoyed as a tasty lunch the next day.