Can I make zucchini boats ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the filling and hollow out the zucchinis up to a day in advance. Store separately in the fridge, then assemble and bake when ready.

What kind of ground beef should I use?

Use 90% lean ground beef for a healthy balance of flavor and minimal grease.

How do I keep zucchini boats from getting soggy?

Salt the hollowed zucchinis and let them sit for ten minutes before baking. Drain excess liquid and bake uncovered.

Can I make them vegetarian?

Absolutely. Swap ground beef for lentils or a crumbled plant-based alternative.

How long do zucchini boats last in the fridge?

They stay fresh for up to four days when stored in an airtight container.

Healthy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats – Amazing 30-Minute Dinner

Description

These Healthy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are a low-carb comfort food dream packed with seasoned beef, simple sauce, and melty cheese, all nestled in tender zucchini halves. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd while staying on track with your health goals.

Ingredients

Scale

4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise
1 tsp salt (for drawing moisture)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 blend)
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup tomato sauce or diced tomatoes
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar
Optional: breadcrumbs or Parmesan for topping
Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Scoop out zucchini halves with a spoon, leaving about ¼ inch border. Sprinkle with salt and lay cut-side down on paper towels for 10 minutes. Pat dry.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add ground beef, cook until browned. Drain fat.
Add tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and a handful of cheese. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
Place zucchini halves in a greased casserole dish. Fill each with beef mixture. Top with remaining cheese. Add breadcrumbs or Parmesan if using.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and zucchini is tender but not mushy.
Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For best results, choose medium zucchinis and don’t skip the salt-and-drain step. For variations, try taco seasoning, Mediterranean flavors, or add diced vegetables. Great for meal prep and reheats well in the oven or air fryer.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 zucchini halves
Calories: 240
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 60mg