Ingredients for Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats (35-Minutes)

• 2 large zucchini: The star of these easy ground beef zucchini boats, forming the edible “boat.” Choose firm, medium-sized zucchini for optimal scooping and baking.
• 1 pound lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10): The savory protein base for the delicious filling. Leaner beef reduces grease, making your zucchini boats healthier and less soggy.
• 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Forms the rich, flavorful tomato sauce base for the beef filling. Crushed tomatoes provide a nice texture without being too chunky.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for sautéing aromatics and browning the ground beef. A good quality olive oil adds a subtle, pleasant flavor to the foundation.
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced: Provides a sweet and aromatic foundation for the savory beef filling. Finely dicing ensures it blends seamlessly into the mixture.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds crucial pungent depth and classic flavor to the beef mixture. Freshly minced garlic provides the best, most aromatic results.
• 1/2 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and rich, savory depth to the ground beef filling. It prevents the mixture from drying out during cooking.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses the filling with salty, umami flavor and helps bind it. Also great for sprinkling on top before baking.
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced: Adds a touch of sweetness, vibrant color, and a slight crunch to the savory filling. It’s a healthy addition.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: A secret weapon for adding deep, complex umami flavor to the ground beef. Don’t skip this for an extra flavor boost.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Provides that classic, aromatic Mediterranean herb flavor that pairs perfectly with beef and tomato. Essential for an authentic taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the dish and is crucial for proper seasoning. Always taste and adjust to your preference.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and a touch of spice to the savory beef filling. Freshly ground pepper offers the best aroma.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates a golden, bubbly, and irresistible cheesy topping for the boats. Use low-moisture mozzarella for best melting.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: A vibrant garnish that adds a pop of color and fresh, herbaceous flavor. Sprinkle just before serving for maximum impact.

How to Make Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats (35-Minutes)

Prep Zucchini:

Halve zucchini lengthwise, scoop out pulp, leaving a 1/4-inch border. Lightly salt the insides; this helps draw out excess moisture. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) for your delicious Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats.

Brown Beef:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add ground beef, breaking it up.

Simmer Filling:

Drain any excess fat from the browned beef. Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.

Bake Boats:

Arrange zucchini halves in a baking dish. Generously fill each boat with the savory beef mixture. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Bake for 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until zucchini is tender-crisp.

Finish Baking:

Remove the Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats (35-Minutes) from the oven. Top each boat with shredded mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly golden.

Garnish & Serve:

Let the Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats (35-Minutes) rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant finish. Serve hot and enjoy this healthy, satisfying meal!

How to Store Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats (35-Minutes)

To store your cooked Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats, allow them to cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. If not properly sealed, they can dry out or absorb odors – don’t let them go uncovered like I once did! Spoilage signs include a sour smell or slimy texture; ensure they’re fresh.

For make-ahead convenience, prep zucchini and beef filling a day in advance. Store separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake boats just before serving to maintain best texture and flavor.

When reheating, cover loosely to prevent drying. They warm well in the oven or microwave.

What to Serve with Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats (35-Minutes)

Serve these delicious Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats hot, directly from the oven for maximum enjoyment. For a touch of elegance, garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving. They are perfect when enjoyed warm. These savory boats pair beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or a glass of chilled white wine for a complete meal.

I personally love to serve them alongside a slice of crusty garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra savory sauce, ensuring you enjoy every last bit of flavor. This combination is incredibly satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent my Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats from becoming watery?

Lightly salting the scooped-out zucchini interiors is crucial. This draws out excess moisture before baking, which I learned the hard way with my first “zucchini soup.” Don’t skip this step for tender, not soggy, boats!

→ Can I substitute the ground beef in these Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats?

Yes, you can! Ground turkey or chicken work well for a lighter version. Just remember to use lean meat (90/10 or higher) to avoid a greasy filling, a mistake I made once. Season well, as poultry is milder.

→ Can I make Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats ahead of time or freeze them?

You can prep the zucchini and beef filling a day in advance and store them separately in the fridge. I don’t recommend freezing the assembled boats, as zucchini gets too soft upon thawing. Assemble and bake fresh for best texture.

→ How long can I store cooked Easy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats in the refrigerator?

Cooked zucchini boats store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure they are completely cool before sealing them, or they can get soggy. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

→ What if I need to make these zucchini boats dairy-free?

You can easily make them dairy-free! Simply omit the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. For a similar creamy texture, you could try a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative, though results may vary. The savory beef filling is still delicious on its own!