Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Name: Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis; 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Moments

I absolutely love making Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Zucchini Boats, as they bring together hearty flavors in a fun and colorful package. The combination of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and fresh zucchini is a satisfying way to enjoy a meal that's both nutritious and delicious. Each bite is a balance of savory and fresh that I can't resist. Plus, they look beautiful on the plate, making them perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends!

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2026-02-10T17:25:37.038Z

When I first tried making stuffed zucchini boats, I was amazed at how versatile they could be. The combination of sauces, spices, and fillings can totally transform this dish, and experimenting with what I had on hand led to this delicious recipe! The secret is in the seasoning – don't be shy to add your favorites!

I also learned that using a scooping tool really helps in hollowing out the zucchini to create enough space for the filling. This method not only makes a delightful presentation but also ensures that the zucchini cooks evenly, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy ground beef combined with fluffy rice creates a satisfying bite.
Fresh zucchini adds a delightful crunch and nutritional value.
Easy to customize with your favorite spices or toppings.

Choosing the Right Zucchini

When selecting zucchinis for this recipe, look for medium-sized ones that are firm and free from blemishes. Smaller zucchinis may become too soft after baking, while larger ones can have excess seeds and become watery. Ideal zucchinis should be about 6 to 8 inches in length, providing ample boat space for stuffing.

If you encounter zucchinis with a bit of a curve, don’t worry! They can still be sliced and stuffed effectively. Just ensure that they can lie flat in your baking dish; if needed, you can always trim the base slightly for balance.

Enhancing the Filling

The filling for these stuffed zucchinis is incredibly versatile. You can substitute ground beef with lean turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian version. If using turkey, keep an eye on cooking times as it may cook faster than beef.

Consider adding finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the filling. Not only do these boost nutrition, but they also enhance the flavor profile. Sauté them alongside the onions before adding the ground beef, allowing their moisture to evaporate for a richer taste.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Zucchini

4 medium zucchinis
1 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Feel free to adapt the ingredients to your taste or dietary needs!

Steps

Prepare the Zucchini

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

Cook the Filling

In a skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add ground beef and cook until browned, then drain excess fat. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and zucchini flesh. Season with salt and pepper.

Stuff the Zucchini

Fill each zucchini boat with the beef and rice mixture. Top with shredded cheese before placing them in a baking dish.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and cheese is bubbly.

Let the zucchini boats rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try topping the stuffed zucchini with fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These stuffed zucchini boats can be prepared ahead of time. Prepare the filling and stuff the zucchinis, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This not only saves time, but also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through, to maintain the texture and flavor balance.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these colorful zucchini boats with a light salad or crusty bread to complement the flavors. A simple side of mixed greens dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the savory filling.

For a fun twist, try topping each boat with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving. This adds a creamy texture and brightens the dish with fresh flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian alternatives work great in this recipe.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply replace the rice with a gluten-free grain like quinoa or a cauliflower rice blend.

→ What can I serve with zucchini boats?

They pair well with a side salad or some garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.

→ Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and then stuff the zucchini right before baking.