Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis; 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Favorites

When I discovered how wonderfully flavorful ground beef and zucchini could be together, I knew I had to share this recipe. I love how the zucchini acts as a vessel, holding the savory beef mixture perfectly, making each bite a delightful experience. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also looks impressive on the dinner table. This dish has become a favorite in my household, and I can't wait for you to try it out!

Created by

Cassandra Reed

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:43:36.193Z

Every time I prepare these ground beef stuffed zucchinis, I’m reminded of summer gardens filled with fresh produce. The zucchini is tender yet firm enough to hold the delicious filling without falling apart, which is key to achieving that perfect texture. What I love most is that even those who claim to dislike vegetables can’t resist this dish!

I stumbled upon a great tip: pre-baking the zucchini for about 10 minutes ensures that the insides are soft, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully when you stuff it. The results are impressively delicious, and that's why I believe everyone should give it a try!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Juicy, savory beef paired with tender zucchini
A healthy and satisfying one-dish meal
Easily customizable with your favorite spices and toppings

Maximize Flavor with Searing

To enhance the flavors of your ground beef, make sure to sear it properly in the skillet. Start with a cold pan over medium heat, then add the chopped onions and garlic. This will slowly elevate the temperature, allowing the onions to become translucent while aiding in developing a rich, savory base for your filling. Once you add the ground beef, increase the heat slightly to get a nice browning on the meat; this caramelization adds depth and richness to the dish.

Don’t rush the cooking time! Cooking the beef until it’s browned—a process that usually takes around 5-7 minutes—is essential. This step ensures that the meat is flavorful and packed with umami. Avoid stirring too frequently; let the beef sit undisturbed for a few moments to develop that beautiful crust.

Zucchini Preparation Tips

When preparing your zucchinis, be careful not to scoop out too much of the flesh. Leaving about 1/2 inch is crucial to maintain their structure during baking. If you find the zucchinis are too watery, consider salting the insides lightly after scooping. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then blot gently with a paper towel before adding the filling.

Another tip is to ensure the zucchinis are evenly cut in half. If one half is thicker than the other, it might not cook uniformly. Aim for halves that are approximately equal in size to ensure that they all become tender at the same time, allowing for a consistent texture across the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a fresh finishing touch, consider serving these stuffed zucchinis with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, after baking. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's flavor profile with fresh notes. A side salad or crusty bread would complement the meal nicely, providing a balanced and vibrant dinner experience.

Feel free to explore variations of this dish by utilizing different proteins or vegetables. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative to beef, and adding veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling can introduce additional textures and flavors. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.

Ingredients

4 medium zucchinis
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the centers, leaving about 1/2 inch of flesh. Drizzle the insides with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and let simmer for 5 minutes.

Stuff the Zucchini

Remove the skillet from heat and mix in half of the shredded cheese with the beef mixture. Stuff each zucchini half generously with the filling, then top with the remaining cheese.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try using different spices or adding chopped bell peppers to the beef mixture.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're looking to meal prep, this recipe is easily adaptable for make-ahead purposes. You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This method not only saves you time on busy nights but allows the flavors to meld for an even tastier experience when you finally stuff the zucchinis.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake the stuffed zucchinis in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave them; just cover with a damp paper towel to keep them moist during reheating.

Dietary Swaps and Alternatives

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or quinoa as a base for the filling instead of ground beef. These ingredients provide ample protein while offering a different texture. Just sauté with your usual aromatics and season to taste, ensuring the mixture remains hearty and flavorful.

For a dairy-free variation, you can omit the cheese topping or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast is also a great way to achieve that cheesy flavor without dairy; just sprinkle it into the filling before stuffing the zucchinis.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and makes the dish lighter.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with cooked quinoa or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed zucchinis, cover, and refrigerate them before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

→ What toppings can I add to the stuffed zucchinis?

Feel free to add sour cream, chopped fresh herbs, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.