Ground Meat Stuffed Zucchini

Baked zucchini halves topped with ground meat.

Ground Meat Stuffed Zucchini

Stuffed zucchini with ground meat makes a hearty yet light dinner. The tender zucchini boats hold a savory filling of seasoned ground turkey baked to perfection. It’s a wholesome meal that feels cozy without being too heavy.

Course Main Course, Main Dishes

Cuisine American, International, Mediterranean

Keyword ground beef, large zucchini, meat mixture, mozzarella, scoop, seasoning, squash, stuffed zucchini, stuffing, zucchini, zucchini boats, zucchini half, zucchini in half lengthwise

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Servings Portions

Calories 119kcal

Author Zuzana Paar

Equipment

1 Baking Pan
1 Skillet
1 Wooden Spatula
1 Baking Sheet

Ingredients

2 Pieces Zucchinis medium-sized, sliced and seeded
1/2 Cup Mozzarella shredded
1/2 Pound Ground Turkey
1/2 Cup Marinara
1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1/2 teaspoon Dried Basil
1/4 Cup Onion finely chopped

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°Fahrenheit (190°Celsius) and grease a baking pan or line with parchment. Slice zucchinis lengthwise, scoop out centers, and arrange cut side up in the pan.
Cook ground turkey and onion in a skillet over medium heat for 6–8 minutes, breaking up the meat until browned and onions are soft.
Add garlic powder and dried basil, stir well, then mix in marinara sauce and simmer briefly to combine the flavors before removing from heat.
Spoon the turkey mixture into each zucchini half, top with mozzarella, and bake for 20 minutes until the zucchinis are tender and cheese is golden.

Notes

Drain the zucchini shells well: After scooping, sprinkle with a little salt and let them sit to release moisture. This keeps your dish from turning soggy.
Season the meat generously: A mix of garlic, onion, and herbs makes the filling rich and flavorful. Don’t be afraid to add a pinch of spice for an extra kick.
Add a binder to the filling: A spoonful of breadcrumbs or cooked rice helps hold the meat together. It also makes the stuffing softer and more satisfying.
Top with cheese before baking: A layer of shredded mozzarella or parmesan adds a golden crust. It also boosts flavor and makes the dish more comforting.

Nutrition