Looking for a fun and easy dinner to break the week’s routine? These Weeknight Zucchini Boats are loaded with flavor and take just a handful of simple ingredients to pull together. A perfectly stuffed zucchini boat makes a tasty summer meal without the hassle. Zucchini boats are the perfect dish for when you want dinner on the table fast, hearty and wholesome.
With no time for anything fancy, I grabbed some leftover turkey and a handful of odds and ends like cheese and spices. I scooped, stuffed, and baked, not expecting much. But when I took the first bite of that zucchini boat, I knew I had accidentally created a weeknight dinner I’d want again and again, easy, hearty, and extra delicious.
Quick Filling Dinner
This recipe is perfect for nights when you want dinner on the table fast. The filling comes together in one pan, and the zucchini boats bake while you tidy up. You’ll be surprised how awesome they are. It feels like comfort food but without the heaviness.
Summer Recipe with Fresh Ingredients
Zucchini is one of those summer veggies that just begs to be stuffed. Pair it with fresh summer drinks, such as agua de Jamaica iced tea or fruit-flavored water. This recipe keeps things light and seasonal, great for warmer nights. A smart way to use up extra zucchini from the garden or market.
Turkey in a Zucchini Recipe
Ground turkey makes this dish protein-rich and a little leaner than using beef. It soaks up the flavors of the spices and melds perfectly with the tender zucchini. This combo creates a balanced, wholesome meal. And if you’re cooking for one or two, it’s easy to portion and reheat.
How To Make Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Stuffed zucchini boats are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy a veggie-packed meal. Filled with a tasty mix of protein, herbs, and cheese, they make a satisfying, clean dinner option.
Kitchen Gadgets:
- Wooden Spatula: Ideal for stirring and sautéing without damaging your non-stick surfaces.
- Skillet: Your go-to for browning ground turkey and softening onions to lock in rich flavor.
- Baking Sheet: Useful for roasting zucchini halves while keeping cleanup simple.
- Baking Pan: Just right for arranging your zucchini boats and baking them to perfection.
Ingredients:
- Mozzarella: Melts beautifully on top, giving your zucchini boats that cheesy, comforting finish.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a savory, slightly nutty flavor to boost the filling.
- Zucchinis: The perfect base that holds all the deliciousness inside.
- Dried Basil: Brings a herby Italian flair that pairs well with the marinara.
- Onion: Sautéed for a touch of sweetness and depth in the filling.
- Marinara Sauce: Adds rich tomato flavor and keeps the filling juicy.
- Lean Ground Turkey: A high-protein filling that soaks up all the spices and flavors.
*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
FULL INSTRUCTIONS WITH STEPS FOR EASY STUFFED ZUCCHINI BOATS
First Step: Prep and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment or lightly grease it. Wash the zucchinis, cut them lengthwise, and carefully scoop out the centers to form boats, leaving a bit of flesh around the edges. Arrange them cut side up in your baking dish.
Second Step: Brown the Meat
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey along with the finely chopped onion. Stir frequently and break up the meat as it cooks, about 6 to 8 minutes. The turkey should be browned and the onions soft, with no pink spots left.
Third Step: Season and Simmer
Add the garlic powder and dried basil to the turkey mixture, stirring to coat everything evenly. Pour in the marinara sauce and mix it all together. Let it cook for another minute or two until hot, then take the skillet off the heat.
Fourth Step: Stuff and Bake
Spoon the seasoned turkey mixture evenly into each zucchini boat, filling them to the top. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over each one. Bake for about 20 minutes, until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbling.
TRICKS AND RECIPE TIPS:
- Choose Medium-Sized Zucchini: Look for zucchini that are medium in size, large enough to hold filling but not too thick. Smaller zucchini can be too narrow and won’t hold much, while extra-large ones may turn mushy.
- Scoop Gently: Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the middle of the zucchini, leaving a thin border. This helps them hold their shape while baking and keeps the texture just right.
- Pre-Cook the Filling: Cooking the filling in a skillet first lets you layer in flavor before it goes into the oven. It makes the final baking time quicker and more even.
- Add Cheese Near the End: If you’re topping your boats with cheese, add it during the last 5–10 minutes of baking. This keeps it melty and golden without overcooking or burning.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What to Serve With This Recipe?
Zucchini boats pair well with a simple salad with blue cheese dressing, pickled watermelon rind, kale salad, or air-fried chicken for a fresh, balanced meal. You can also serve them with side dishes like riced cauliflower, oven-baked riced cauli, or protein bread. For a heartier dinner, try adding a side of clear vegetable soup and protein salad.
How Do I Store Fresh Zucchini Boats?
Let the zucchini boats cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for about 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the texture from getting too soft.
Yes, you can freeze zucchini boats, but be aware that the texture may become softer once thawed. Wrap them individually in foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. Reheat straight from frozen in the oven for best results.
More Clean-Eating Recipes
Looking for more clean-eating inspiration? Try starting your day with a cozy brioche French toast casserole made with simple, wholesome ingredients. If you’re into meal prep, dehydrating broccoli is a great way to keep veggies on hand without waste.
Indian spices can bring bold, earthy flavor to your everyday meals while still keeping things clean and nourishing. Each of these recipes fits right into a mindful, balanced lifestyle that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
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Weeknight Zucchini Boats Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Wooden Spatula
- 1 Skillet
Ingredients
- 1/2 Cup Mozzarella grated
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 2 Pieces Zucchinis medium, split and cored
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Basil
- 1/4 Cup Onion diced
- 1/2 Cup Marinara Sauce
- 1/2 Pound Ground Turkey lean
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment or lightly grease it. Wash the zucchinis, cut them lengthwise, and carefully scoop out the centers to form boats, leaving a bit of flesh around the edges. Arrange them cut side up in your baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey along with the finely chopped onion. Stir frequently and break up the meat as it cooks, about 6 to 8 minutes. The turkey should be browned and the onions soft, with no pink spots left.
- Add the garlic powder and dried basil to the turkey mixture, stirring to coat everything evenly. Pour in the marinara sauce and mix it all together. Let it cook for another minute or two until hot, then take the skillet off the heat.
- Spoon the seasoned turkey mixture evenly into each zucchini boat, filling them to the top. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over each one. Bake for about 20 minutes, until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbling.
Notes
- Choose Medium-Sized Zucchini: Look for zucchini that are medium in size, large enough to hold filling but not too thick. Smaller zucchini can be too narrow and won’t hold much, while extra-large ones may turn mushy.
- Scoop Gently: Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the middle of the zucchini, leaving a thin border. This helps them hold their shape while baking and keeps the texture just right.
- Pre-Cook the Filling: Cooking the filling in a skillet first lets you layer in flavor before it goes into the oven. It makes the final baking time quicker and more even.
- Add Cheese Near the End: If you’re topping your boats with cheese, add it during the last 5–10 minutes of baking. This keeps it melty and golden without overcooking or burning.
Nutrition
Disclaimer
Please note that nutrient values are estimates only. Variations can occur due to product availability and manner of food preparation. Nutrition may vary based on methods of origin, preparation, freshness of ingredients, and other factors.
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