Ground Beef Zucchini Boats
Wholesome zucchini halves filled with savory ground beef, aromatic Italian seasoning, melted mozzarella, and a flavorful tomato sauce. A balanced, low-carb meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Quick Dinner Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Omnivore
Ingredients
4 small zucchini
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 pound ground beef
3 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
Pepper to taste
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
Cut zucchini lengthwise, scrape out seeds to create boats
In a skillet, heat olive oil, sauté onion until fragrant
Add ground beef, cook until browned and crumbled
Stir in tomato paste, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and tomato sauce
Let simmer for 10 minutes
Fill each zucchini boat with beef mixture
Top with shredded mozzarella cheese
Bake for 25-30 minutes until zucchini is tender and cheese is golden
Notes
Substitute ground turkey/chicken for leaner protein
Trim fat from zucchini with a paring knife for lower calories
Use parchment paper for easy cleanup
Fresh basil or oregano can enhance flavor
Add steamed rice or garlic bread for extra carbohydrates
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 zucchini boat
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 50mg