Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C) and lining a 9x13-inch baking dish with foil for easy cleanup.

2. Step 2

   Next, take your zucchini and slice it in half lengthwise.

3. Step 3

   Gently scoop out the flesh with a spoon, making sure to save about three-quarters of it for the delicious filling we’re about to create.

4. Step 4

   Now, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.

5. Step 5

   Once it’s bubbling, add the zucchini halves and let them cook for about four minutes.

6. Step 6

   After that, drain them and quickly transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water to halt the cooking process.

7. Step 7

   Once they’re cool, drain them again and set them aside.

8. Step 8

   In a large pan, warm up some olive oil over medium-high heat.

9. Step 9

   Add the ground beef and cook it, stirring frequently, until it’s nicely browned and broken into small pieces—this should take around five to seven minutes.

10. Step 10

    Now, it’s time to add some flavor! Stir in the rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

11. Step 11

    Toss in the reserved zucchini flesh, along with some chopped onion and grated carrot, and cook everything together for another two to three minutes until the veggies soften a bit.

12. Step 12

    Next, pour in the red wine and Worcestershire sauce, letting it cook for one to two minutes to meld those flavors.

13. Step 13

    Then, add the beef stock and let the mixture simmer for about ten minutes, allowing it to reduce and thicken beautifully.

14. Step 14

    Now comes the fun part! Place the zucchini halves in your prepared baking dish and generously fill each one with the savory beef mixture.

15. Step 15

    To top it all off, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over the filled zucchini.

16. Step 16

    Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about thirty minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a golden, irresistible topping.

17. Step 17

    Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen as you wait for this scrumptious dish to be ready!.