Oven-Baked 4-Ingredient Beef Stuffed Zucchini

Need an easy dinner that comes together with minimal effort? These oven-baked beef stuffed zucchini boats are a wholesome, comforting meal made with just four main ingredients. Fresh zucchini is filled with seasoned ground beef, baked in marinara sauce, and topped with gooey melted mozzarella for a delicious one-pan dinner that’s perfect any night of the week.

The zucchini becomes perfectly tender while the beef stays juicy, and the bubbling marinara creates a flavorful sauce that’s wonderful served with bread, noodles, or a simple green salad.

Servings

4 servings

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchini
• 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80–90% lean)
• 1½ cups marinara or pasta sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or oregano (optional)
• Olive oil or cooking spray for greasing

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Wash the zucchini, trim the ends, and slice each one in half lengthwise.
3. Using a spoon, scoop out the center of each zucchini half, leaving about ¼ inch around the edges to create sturdy boats.
4. Arrange the zucchini halves cut-side up in the prepared baking dish.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until just mixed.
6. Divide the beef evenly among the zucchini boats, pressing it gently into the hollow centers.
7. Pour the marinara sauce around and between the zucchini. Spoon a little sauce over the tops if desired.
8. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over each stuffed zucchini.
10. Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden and the beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
11. Allow the zucchini boats to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Spoon the warm marinara sauce from the pan over each serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Fresh green salad
• Sliced cucumbers and tomatoes
• Buttered egg noodles
• Garlic bread or crusty bread
• Steamed rice
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese
• Crushed red pepper flakes

Recipe Tips

• Choose zucchini that are similar in size for even cooking.
• Do not overmix the ground beef to keep it tender.
• Very large zucchini may require a few extra minutes of baking.
• Mix chopped zucchini flesh into the beef for extra vegetables.
• Substitute lean ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Italian cheese blend, provolone, or cheddar can replace the mozzarella.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. Freeze for up to 2 months if desired.

Food Safety

• Keep raw ground beef refrigerated until ready to use.
• Wash hands, utensils, and work surfaces after handling raw meat.
• Cook the beef until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and reheat thoroughly before serving.