Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis; 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Quick Inspiration

I absolutely love making Ground Beef Stuffed Zucchini because it’s a delicious, healthy dish that’s packed with flavor. The combination of seasoned ground beef and fresh zucchini creates a satisfying meal that's perfect for dinner. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it also allows me to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing. Plus, it's a great way to use up any zucchini from the garden or farmers' market. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your home.

Created by

Isadora Pembroke

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:57:36.745Z

On a warm summer evening, craving something hearty but light, I stumbled upon the idea of stuffing zucchini with flavorful ground beef. The result was better than I could have imagined! Not only did I love the taste, but the dish also looked fantastic on the plate. I experimented with spices and found the perfect balance between savory and fresh.

What truly makes this recipe shine is the way the zucchini softens and embraces the filling, while the cheese melts beautifully on top. I recommend using fresh herbs like parsley and basil to elevate the flavors even more. It’s a dish that not only satisfies the belly but also warms the heart!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy ground beef combined with garden-fresh zucchini
Flavorful blend of herbs and spices that makes every bite irresistible
Quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner

Preparing the Zucchini

Slicing the zucchini in half lengthwise is crucial for even cooking and stuffing. Make sure to scoop out enough of the flesh, leaving about a quarter of an inch on the sides to maintain structure. Use a spoon with a rounded edge to easily carve out the insides without breaking the skin. Keep the scooped flesh aside; you can integrate it back into the beef filling if desired for extra flavor and texture.

Once your oven is preheated to 375°F (190°C), place your hollowed zucchini halves cut side up on a baking sheet. This helps them cook evenly and allows the cheese on top to melt beautifully during the baking process. If any zucchini halves are wobbly, trim the bottom slightly to create a flat base so they sit upright in the oven without tipping over.

Cooking the Beef Filling

Using a large skillet helps distribute heat evenly, which is essential for browning the ground beef thoroughly. Make sure to break up the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks, allowing for better texture and more flavor absorption from the sautéed onions and garlic. Cook the beef until it’s no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. If there's excess grease, drain it off to prevent a soggy stuffing.

Adding the diced tomatoes brings moisture and acidity to balance the richness of the beef. Fresh tomatoes work great if you have them, but canned diced tomatoes are convenient and flavorful, especially off-season. Allowing the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes melds the flavors, but be careful not to overcook it, as this could result in a dry filling.

Stuffing and Baking Tips

When filling the zucchini, pack the beef mixture tightly but avoid overstuffing, which might cause spilling during baking. A gentle press with the back of a spoon can ensure an even filling surface, helping the cheese melt evenly. If you want to add a crunchy topping, consider mixing some breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top before adding the mozzarella.

Baking for 20-25 minutes is generally ideal, but keep an eye on the zucchinis as oven temperatures can vary. Look for the cheese to be golden and bubbly, and the zucchini should be tender but should still hold its shape. If you prefer a firmer zucchini, you might reduce the baking time slightly; check for doneness with a fork for your ideal texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started!

For the Stuffed Zucchini

4 medium zucchinis
1 lb ground beef
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil

With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to preparing a delightful meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a culinary adventure.

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, creating a hollow shell. Set aside.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add ground beef, cooking until browned. Stir in diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and let simmer for 5-7 minutes.

Stuff and Bake

Fill each zucchini half with the beef mixture, packing it tightly. Place them on a baking sheet and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the zucchinis are tender and cheese is bubbly.

Let the stuffed zucchinis cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. You can also substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, which will still deliver great flavor but with less fat. Season these proteins with the same herbs and spices to keep the dish cohesive. Additionally, if you're avoiding dairy, you can use nutritional yeast instead of mozzarella for a savory cheese-like flavor, or omit it altogether for a lighter version.

For a vegetarian twist, replace the ground beef with lentils or quinoa mixed with sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers and mushrooms. This not only keeps the dish hearty but also adds a variety of textures and nutrients, making it a wholesome meal for everyone at the table.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover stuffed zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This method keeps the zucchinis from becoming too soggy compared to microwaving, which can make the zucchini lose its texture.

If you want to freeze stuffed zucchini, it's best to do so before baking. Assemble and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be baked from frozen; just increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes. This means you can prepare a meal in advance, making dinner prep a breeze on busy nights!

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed zucchinis make a delightful main course but can also be paired with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider a simple arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the heartiness of the stuffing. You can also serve them alongside a slice of crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices left on the plate.

For a touch of brightness, garnish your stuffed zucchinis with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil right before serving. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can also elevate the dish, adding a sweet and tangy contrast that complements the savory stuffing beautifully. This simple addition can turn a satisfying meal into a restaurant-worthy experience at home!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be great alternatives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed zucchinis a day in advance and bake them just before serving.

→ What side dishes pair well with stuffed zucchini?

A fresh salad or garlic bread complements this dish wonderfully.