Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchini; 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen

I've always loved finding creative ways to incorporate vegetables into our meals, and this Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini has become a family favorite. The combination of savory ground beef with tender zucchini creates a satisfying dish that's both hearty and nutritious. I appreciate how versatile it is; you can easily swap in different spices or vegetables based on your preference. It's a one-pan wonder that makes for easy clean-up, and it's such a hit at dinner that I often double the recipe to ensure leftovers!

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-02-01T14:49:35.815Z

When I first tried stuffed zucchini, I wasn’t sure how well it would pack flavor. To my delight, the ground beef combined with fresh herbs and spices really opened up the vegetable, making it hearty without being heavy. My secret is adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, which balances out the flavors perfectly.

Each time I prepare this dish, I’m reminded of summer gatherings, as my family loves getting involved. We often experiment with different cheese toppings, but my favorite is a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan. It creates a crispy, cheesy crust that everyone fights over!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Savory ground beef perfectly complements tender zucchini
A healthy twist on a classic comfort dish
Easily customizable with your favorite spices and toppings

      

Understanding Zucchini's Role

Zucchini is not just a vessel for your flavorful filling; it plays an essential role in the dish's overall texture. When baked, zucchini softens and becomes slightly sweet, balancing the savory ground beef and spices. Look for zucchinis that are firm and free from blemishes for the best results. If you're in a pinch, yellow squash can also be an excellent alternative with a similar texture and flavor profile.

One common concern when using zucchini is its moisture content, which can lead to a soggy filling. To prevent this, ensure you scoop out enough of the flesh, leaving some zucchini walls intact for structural support. Also, consider salting the scooped-out flesh and letting it sit for a bit to draw out excess moisture before adding it to your filling mixture.

Customizing Your Stuffed Zucchini

This recipe is highly adaptable so you can mix and match flavors to suit your family's tastes. Swap out the ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian version. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of soy sauce to the filling can deepen the umami flavor profile, making each bite even more satisfying.

Toppings can also elevate your dish further. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or feta, for a unique flavor twist. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, consider mixing in toasted breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips before the final bake. This addition can provide a delightful contrast to the soft zucchini and hearty filling.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! Stuffed zucchini keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store them tightly covered in an airtight container to maintain freshness. For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking. Assemble the stuffed zucchinis and wrap them individually in plastic wrap and foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy your stuffed zucchini again, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-30 minutes, or until hot throughout. This method helps preserve the zucchini's texture while ensuring that the meat filling stays juicy and flavorful.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious stuffed zucchini:

Main Ingredients

4 medium zucchini
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Toppings

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Make sure to prep everything before you start cooking for a smoother experience!

Instructions

Now that you've gathered your ingredients, here’s how to create the stuffed zucchini:

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the center, creating a small boat. Set aside the scooped flesh for later use.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Stir in the diced tomatoes, zucchini flesh, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, until heated through.

Stuff the Zucchini

Spoon the beef mixture into each zucchini half. Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish and cover with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!

Pair these stuffed zucchinis with a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try using spicy sausage instead of ground beef or add your favorite veggies to the filling. Additionally, you can prepare the stuffing in advance and assemble the zucchinis just before baking!

Serving Suggestions

These Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchinis are wonderful when paired with a light salad or a side of roasted vegetables. The freshness of a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can complement the hearty nature of the dish beautifully. Alternatively, consider serving over a bed of quinoa or rice for a complete meal with added fiber.

If you want to make this dish more festive for a gathering, serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up any juices. You could even have a topping bar set up, inviting guests to customize their stuffed zucchinis with hot sauce, extra cheese, or sautéed mushrooms.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your zucchini boats come out too watery, ensure you've properly drained the diced tomatoes and let the scooped zucchini flesh sit with salt to draw out moisture, as mentioned earlier. Overcrowding the baking dish can also trap steam, making your zucchinis soggy—so give them space to breathe!

Should your filling turn out dry, consider adding a splash of broth or additional diced tomatoes during the cooking process. This will help keep the mixture moist and flavorful. Also, be sure to taste your filling before stuffing; under-seasoning can lead to bland results, so adjust your seasonings to taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based options work great in this recipe.

→ What if I have leftover stuffing?

You can store leftover filling in the refrigerator for up to three days and use it in other dishes like tacos or pasta.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with mushrooms or lentils and add extra diced vegetables for texture.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed zucchini?

Yes, you can freeze stuffed zucchini before baking. Just thaw and bake according to the instructions when ready to eat.