Delicious Stuffed Zucchini with Ground Meat and Cheese Recipe
Introduction
Stuffed zucchini is a simple and satisfying dish that combines tender zucchini with a flavorful filling of ground meat, cheese, and tomato sauce. It’s perfect for a comforting meal that feels homemade without much fuss.
Ingredients
- Zucchini (4 medium-sized)
- Ground meat (1 pound)
- Cheese, shredded (1 cup)
- Tomato sauce (1 cup)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchini in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the center to create boats, leaving a sturdy shell.
- Step 2: In a skillet, cook the ground meat until browned and cooked through. Mix in tomato sauce and half of the cheese. Spoon the mixture evenly into the hollowed zucchini halves.
- Step 3: Place the stuffed zucchini in a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Step 4: Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
Tips & Variations
- Try using a mix of ground beef and pork for extra flavor and juiciness.
- Add herbs like basil or oregano to the filling for a fresh, aromatic touch.
- Swap the tomato sauce for marinara or a spicy arrabbiata sauce for a different flavor profile.
- For a vegetarian version, replace ground meat with cooked quinoa or lentils.
Storage
Store leftover stuffed zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10–15 minutes, to maintain the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare stuffed zucchini ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed zucchini ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly to prevent drying out.
What can I use instead of cheese?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or omit cheese entirely and add extra herbs and spices.
PrintDelicious Stuffed Zucchini with Ground Meat and Cheese Recipe
This Stuffed Zucchini recipe features tender zucchinis filled with a savory mixture of ground meat and cheese, baked in a rich tomato sauce until perfectly tender. It’s an easy, comforting dish that balances healthy vegetables with hearty flavors, making it ideal for a family dinner or special occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Zucchini
- 4 medium zucchinis
Stuffing
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or lamb)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
Other
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash the zucchinis and slice them in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the inner flesh to create a hollow shell, leaving about ¼ inch thickness. Set the scooped flesh aside.
- Make the stuffing: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground meat and cook until browned and no longer pink. Chop the reserved zucchini flesh and add it to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano, and cook for another 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Assemble the stuffed zucchinis: Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Stir in half of the shredded cheese. Fill each zucchini half generously with the meat mixture, then place them in a baking dish. Spoon tomato sauce over and around the stuffed zucchinis. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and golden on top.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or crusty bread.
Notes
- You can substitute ground meat with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adding chopped herbs like parsley or basil to the stuffing mixture enhances flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with cooked lentils or mushrooms.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- Use gluten-free tomato sauce to make the recipe gluten free if needed.
Keywords: stuffed zucchini, ground meat recipe, baked zucchini, easy Italian dinner, healthy stuffed vegetables
