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: 2 medium zucchinis, halved and hollowed out; 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini when I'm craving a hearty yet healthy meal. The tender zucchini serves as the perfect vessel for the seasoned ground beef, combined with aromatic herbs and spices. Every bite is a delightful blend of flavors that satisfy my hunger without the guilt. Plus, it’s a simple recipe that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The best part? You can customize the filling to suit your taste. Give it a try, and you might just find a new favorite!

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:21:36.836Z

When I first made Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini, I was amazed at how well the flavors melded together. I seasoned the beef with garlic, onion, and a touch of Italian herbs, and the result was a rich filling that paired perfectly with the mild zucchini. Making sure not to overcook the zucchini was a game-changer—it maintained its structure, creating a satisfying bite.

I've since experimented with adding different cheese to the mix, and I must say, a sprinkle of mozzarella right before serving takes it to the next level. Now, I can't help but share this dish with friends and family whenever they visit!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty filling that's packed with flavor
Low-carb alternative to traditional stuffed dishes
Versatile recipe that allows for ingredient swaps
Quick and easy to prepare for any weeknight dinner

Choosing the Right Zucchini

When selecting zucchinis for your stuffed dish, opt for medium-sized ones. These will have a good flesh-to-seed ratio, ensuring a satisfying bite and preventing a watery filling. Look for zucchinis that are firm and free of blemishes. Additionally, smaller zucchinis are often sweeter and more tender, making them ideal for this recipe.

If you come across overly large zucchinis, consider using them for this dish, but be aware they might contain larger seeds and a thicker skin. In such cases, you’ll need to scoop out more flesh to maintain the ideal texture. Remember, the key is a tender and flavorful vessel for your filling.

Customizing the Filling

The beauty of Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini is its versatility. While the recipe calls for ground beef, you can swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative like lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Each filling will bring its unique flavor profile, enhancing the overall dish.

Don't hesitate to experiment with herbs and spices too! If Italian seasoning isn't your favorite, consider using taco seasoning for a spicy twist or adding some crushed red pepper for heat. You can also try incorporating ingredients like bell peppers or spinach into the filling to add more nutrients and flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

One fantastic aspect of this recipe is that it can be prepared in advance. You can stuff the zucchinis earlier in the day and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to cover them tightly with foil to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. This is a great way to save time during busy weeknights.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge. Reheating is simple; just place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes. For longer storage, they can be frozen. Wrap each stuffed zucchini in cling film and then in foil. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, let them thaw overnight in the fridge before warming them in the oven.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis, halved and hollowed out
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Feel free to adjust the seasonings and add your favorite herbs!

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Start by cutting the zucchinis in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds, forming a boat shape.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and onions are translucent. Drain excess fat. Stir in the diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning, and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Fill the Zucchini

Spoon the beef mixture into the hollowed zucchinis, packing them tightly. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the stuffed zucchinis cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can mix in some chopped herbs such as parsley or basil into the beef filling.

Essential Tools

For this recipe, a sturdy skillet is essential for browning the ground beef properly. A non-stick skillet can help reduce the amount of fat sticking to the bottom, making cleanup easier. Additionally, a sharp knife will ensure clean cuts when halving the zucchinis, while a spoon with a rounded edge is ideal for scooping out the flesh without damaging the zucchini’s skin.

If you want to make serving easier, consider using a baking dish that can double as a serving platter. This way, you can present your stunning stuffed zucchinis directly to the table without having to transfer them to another dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making stuffed zucchini is that they can become watery, especially if the zucchinis are overripe. To avoid this, make sure to scoop out excess seeds thoroughly, and you can also lightly salt the hollowed-out zucchinis to draw out moisture before filling. Let them sit for about 10 minutes, then pat dry with a paper towel.

Another potential problem is undercooked zucchini, which can happen if the halves are thick. To ensure even cooking, cut your zucchinis uniformly and avoid selecting any that exceed medium size. If you find that your filling is done but the zucchini is still firm, you may need to adjust your baking time accordingly or microwave the zucchinis for a minute or two before stuffing.

Serving Suggestions

Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the presentation and flavor even further. Additionally, serving it alongside some garlic bread can complement the savory filling beautifully.

For a heartier option, consider pairing your stuffed zucchinis with a side of quinoa or brown rice. These grain options not only enhance the meal's nutritional profile but also add another layer of texture. A light tomato sauce spooned over the top can also be a delicious accompaniment.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and works perfectly in this recipe.

→ How do I know when the zucchini is done?

The zucchini is done when it's tender but still holds its shape. A fork should be able to pierce it with light resistance.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed zucchinis ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What toppings can I add?

Feel free to get creative! Some delicious toppings include sour cream, chopped green onions, or additional herbs.