Description
Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are a delicious and healthy low-carb meal featuring hollowed-out zucchini stuffed with a savory ground beef mixture, seasoned with garlic, onions, and Italian herbs, and topped with melted cheese. Baked to perfection, this dish is packed with protein and flavor while being keto-friendly and gluten-free.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis – halved lengthwise and scooped out to create “boats.”
- 1 pound ground beef – lean works best, but any variety will do.
- 1 small onion – diced.
- 2 cloves garlic – minced.
- 1 cup tomato sauce – for the filling base.
- 1 cup shredded cheese – mozzarella, cheddar, or parmesan.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon paprika.
- Salt & pepper to taste.
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out centers to form boats. Brush lightly with olive oil and place on a baking sheet. Pre-bake for 5–7 minutes.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
5. Spoon beef mixture evenly into pre-baked zucchini boats.
6. Top each with shredded cheese and bake for 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
For a spicier kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 zucchini boat
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg