Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats (Healthy and Delicious)
Healthy baked zucchini boats filled with seasoned ground beef, tomato sauce, and melted cheese for a simple low-carb and flavorful dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner, Healthy Meals
- Method: Baked, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
4 medium zucchinis (halved lengthwise and scooped out)
1 lb ground beef (lean preferred)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or parmesan)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the center to form “boats.”
Brush zucchini lightly with olive oil and place on a baking sheet.
Pre-bake for 5–7 minutes to soften slightly.
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onion until soft.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Fill each zucchini boat with the beef mixture.
Top with shredded cheese.
Bake for 15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
Notes
Pre-baking the zucchini helps prevent watery boats.
You can swap beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the filling for extra vegetables.
Parmesan adds a sharper, saltier flavor on top.
For extra flavor, sprinkle red pepper flakes before baking.
