Looking for a hearty, nutritious, and easy-to-make dinner? Ground Beef & Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini Boats are the perfect combination of flavor and health. Packed with protein, fiber, and veggies, these stuffed zucchini boats make a colorful and satisfying meal that your whole family will love.
Ingredients
To make this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:
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4 medium zucchinis
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1 lb (450 g) ground beef
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1 cup cooked quinoa
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Required Kitchen Tools
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Baking dish (9×13 inches recommended)
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Large skillet
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Spoon or small scoop
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Knife and cutting board
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Mixing bowl
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Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when your zucchini boats are stuffed.
2. Prepare the Zucchinis
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and slice them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the seeds and a bit of the flesh, creating hollow “boats” ready for filling. Set aside the scooped-out flesh for later use in the filling.
3. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
4. Prepare the Filling
Chop the reserved zucchini flesh and add it to the skillet along with the diced red bell pepper and halved cherry tomatoes. Stir in the cooked quinoa, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Stuff the Zucchinis
Spoon the beef and quinoa mixture into each zucchini half, pressing it in gently to ensure the boats are generously filled.
6. Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the top of each stuffed zucchini boat. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the cheese for added richness.
7. Bake the Zucchini Boats
Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
8. Garnish and Serve
Remove the zucchini boats from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. These boats pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a light vinaigrette.
Helpful Tips for the Perfect Ground Beef & Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini Boats
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Choose medium zucchinis: Medium-sized zucchinis are ideal as they hold the filling well without being too watery.
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Cook quinoa in advance: Preparing quinoa ahead of time will make the cooking process faster.
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Prevent soggy boats: Salt the zucchini halves lightly and let them sit for 10 minutes before stuffing to remove excess moisture.
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Add flavor: For an extra burst of flavor, mix in a teaspoon of tomato paste or a splash of Worcestershire sauce into the filling.
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Make it vegetarian: Swap ground beef for cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles for a meat-free version.
Approximate Nutritional Value (Per Serving, 2 zucchini halves)
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Calories: 320 kcal
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Protein: 25 g
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Carbohydrates: 18 g
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Dietary Fiber: 5 g
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Fat: 15 g
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Saturated Fat: 5 g
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Sodium: 450 mg
Conclusion
Ground Beef & Quinoa Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a flavorful and nutrient-packed meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. With a balance of protein, fiber, and fresh vegetables, this recipe is not only satisfying but also supports a healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, these stuffed zucchini boats are guaranteed to impress. Don’t wait—grab your zucchinis and try this delicious recipe tonight!
