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Two golden-brown halved zucchinis hugging savory seasoned ground beef mixture with melted mozzarella, garnished with fresh parsley and cherry tomatoes, placed on a rustic wooden cutting board with visible onion and garlic bits.

Healthy Zucchini Boats with Lean Beef

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These healthy beef zucchini boats are simple, fast, and packed with flavor—perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise and scooped
  • 1 lb lean ground beef (93% lean)
  • 1/2 cup finely diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 4 cherry tomatoes, halved (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush zucchini halves with olive oil, season lightly with salt and pepper, and place cut-side up on a baking sheet.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
  3. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and marinara sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Spoon beef mixture into zucchini boats, pressing gently to fill.
  5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over top.
  6. Bake for 18–20 minutes, until zucchini is tender and cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Garnish with parsley and cherry tomatoes before serving.

Notes

  • For extra veggies, add diced mushrooms or bell peppers to the beef filling.
  • Can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: High Protein, Low Carb

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 zucchini boat with filling and cheese
  • Calories: 220 Kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 21g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg
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