Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner recipe that incorporates zucchini, ground beef, and cheese? Look no further! Zucchini boats are a fun and creative way to enjoy this tasty combination. Simply hollow out the insides of some zucchinis, fill them with a mixture of cooked ground beef, cheese, and your choice of spices and herbs, and bake until golden brown.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 different recipes for stuffed zucchini boats that combine ground beef and cheese in unique and mouth-watering ways. From classic Italian-inspired dishes to spicy Tex-Mex creations, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next meal, these recipes are sure to please.
Classic Italian Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef
A twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe replaces bell peppers with zucchinis and adds an Italian flair. This flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a special occasion meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, tomato paste, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is well combined.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is heated through and the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican-Style Zucchini Boats with Spicy Ground Beef
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the freshness of zucchini with the boldness of spicy ground beef.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, black beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the spicy ground beef mixture.
6. Place stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines ground beef, rice, cheese, and zucchini for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture and top with shredded cheese.
6. Spray or brush with cooking oil and place on a baking sheet.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek-Inspired Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Feta
Elevate your summer dinner game with these flavorful zucchini boats, packed with juicy ground beef, tangy feta cheese, and a hint of Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and dried oregano to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture and top with crumbled feta cheese.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Loaded Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Bacon
Transform humble zucchinis into a satisfying main dish by filling them with flavorful ground beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheese. This hearty recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy; set aside.
3. In the same skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
5. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out insides, leaving shells intact.
6. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture, followed by shredded cheese and a few pieces of crispy bacon.
7. Place stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Olives
Mediterranean Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Olives: A flavorful twist on traditional zucchini boats, this recipe combines the freshness of zucchini with the savory flavors of ground beef, olives, and Mediterranean spices.
Ingredients:
• 4 medium zucchinis
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out insides, leaving shells about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Place boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush with olive oil, and top each with an olive slice.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Mozzarella Melt
Transform zucchinis into savory boats filled with juicy ground beef, melted mozzarella cheese, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/8 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture, followed by a spoonful of marinara sauce and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Tex-Mex Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Black Beans
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed zucchinis, these Tex-Mex boats pack a punch of spicy ground beef, creamy black beans, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Scoop out zucchini centers, leaving shells intact.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and taco seasoning; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in black beans and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture and top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Parmesan Crust
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe, where tender zucchini boats are filled with savory ground beef and topped with a crispy Parmesan crust.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top of each boat, followed by a layer of breadcrumbs.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the crumbs and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until zucchini is tender and crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Savory Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Mushrooms
Elevate your zucchini game with this hearty, flavorful recipe that combines the freshness of summer squash with the richness of ground beef and earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is softened and fragrant.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat-mushroom mixture and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Cheddar Cheese
Transform ordinary zucchinis into flavorful boats filled with savory ground beef and melted cheddar cheese. This recipe is a twist on traditional stuffed peppers, but just as delicious!
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
7. Cook for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef
Add a kick to your dinner routine with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. These zucchini boats are filled with spicy ground beef and topped with melted cheese, creating a deliciously balanced flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped jalapeños
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice zucchinis in half lengthwise and hollow out the centers.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped jalapeños, onion, garlic, and chili powder to the skillet. Cook until onions are translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture and top with shredded cheese.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the tops and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Quinoa Stuffing
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed zucchinis, this recipe combines the nutty goodness of quinoa with savory ground beef and a hint of Italian seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
4. In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
5. Add chopped onion, garlic, marinara sauce, and oregano to the skillet; stir well.
6. Stuff each zucchini boat with the quinoa mixture, followed by the ground beef mixture.
7. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines tender zucchini boats with a savory ground beef mixture. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and hollow out the centers, leaving about 1/4 inch of flesh on the bottom.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
6. Dot the top of each boat with butter and sprinkle with grated cheese (if using).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Spinach Filling
Transform zucchinis into a flavorful and nutritious main course by filling them with ground beef, spinach, and aromatic spices. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and dried oregano; cook until wilted.
6. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture and top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Place boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This recipe combines the freshness of zucchini with the savory flavors of ground beef and sun-dried tomatoes, making for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Creamy Alfredo Sauce
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed zucchinis, this recipe combines juicy ground beef with a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, all wrapped up in tender zucchini boats.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup creamy Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Scoop out the insides of the zucchinis, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture, followed by a spoonful of creamy Alfredo sauce.
6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each boat.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Roasted Red Peppers
Transform humble zucchinis into a flavorful, Mediterranean-inspired main dish by filling them with savory ground beef and roasted red peppers. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup roasted red peppers (see note)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture, followed by roasted red peppers and oregano.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese (if using) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Note: Roast red peppers by placing them on a baking sheet and drizzling with olive oil. Roast at 400°F for about 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered. Let cool before peeling and chopping.
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Herbed Breadcrumbs
Transform zucchinis into flavorful boats filled with juicy ground beef and crunchy breadcrumbs, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe is a great way to enjoy the freshness of summer in every bite!
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup herbed breadcrumbs (Italian seasoning and parsley)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise, scoop out insides, and place on a baking sheet.
3. In a pan, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture, leaving a small border at top.
6. Sprinkle herbed breadcrumbs on top of each boat.
7. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef and Smoked Gouda
Transform summer zucchinis into a savory, cheesy delight with this easy recipe. The combination of ground beef, smoked gouda, and fresh herbs creates a flavorful filling that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, and oregano to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the meat mixture and top with shredded smoked gouda.
6. Place the boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a flavorful culinary adventure! This article presents 20 mouth-watering zucchini boat recipes, all featuring ground beef and cheese as main ingredients. From classic Italian-style stuffed zucchinis to Tex-Mex inspired delights, each recipe offers a unique twist on the traditional dish. Whether you’re a fan of spicy kick, savory flavors, or creamy textures, there’s something for everyone in this diverse collection of recipes. So go ahead, get creative, and fill your zucchini boats with ground beef and cheese – your taste buds will thank you!
Leave a Reply