These Easy Cheesy Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a fun twist on taco night! They are filled with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and all your favorite toppings.
Getting the kids involved is a breeze! I love how they can help scoop out the zucchini and sprinkle on the cheese. It’s all delicious and super easy to make together!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Medium zucchinis work best, as they hold up well during baking. If zucchini is not available, try bell peppers or eggplant as a tasty alternative.
Ground Beef: I prefer using lean ground beef for a healthier option, but ground turkey or chicken can be good substitutes. You can even go vegetarian with beans or lentils!
Taco Seasoning: You can buy taco seasoning packets, but making your own with chili powder, cumin, and paprika is quick and allows you to control the spice level.
Cheese: I love using a Mexican blend for flavor, but you can swap it for cheddar or mozzarella for a different taste. Vegan cheese works too if you’re looking for a dairy-free option!
How Do I Properly Scoop Zucchini for Filling?
Scooping out the zucchini to make boats might seem tricky, but it’s simple! Here’s how to do it:
- Use a sturdy spoon or a melon baller. Start from the center to scoop out the seeds and flesh.
- Be careful not to pierce through the skin; leave about a quarter inch of flesh to hold the filling.
- If the edges crinkle up, don’t worry! They’ll soften when baked.
This technique creates the perfect little boats for all that tasty filling!
Easy Cheesy Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or salsa
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and easy, taking about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake, for a total of about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for baking your delicious zucchini boats!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Take your zucchinis and carefully cut them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and some flesh to create your “boats.” Don’t toss the scooped-out pieces! Set them aside in case you want to add them to your filling later.
3. Cook the Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is soft, which should take about 3 minutes. Then, add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. Be sure to break it into small pieces with your spoon!
4. Add Flavor:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the taco seasoning, corn, and tomato sauce (or salsa). If you have zucchini flesh set aside, finely chop it and add it here as well for more flavor and texture. Cook everything together for about 2-3 minutes until it’s well mixed and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fill the Zucchini Boats:
Carefully place the zucchini boats in a baking dish. Spoon the delicious taco meat mixture evenly into each boat, filling them generously.
6. Add Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over each filled zucchini boat. Pop the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for tender zucchini and bubbly, golden cheese!
7. Finish and Serve:
Once done, take the baking dish out of the oven. Top with quartered cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a bright touch. Serve hot and enjoy your cheesy taco stuffed zucchini boats!
These tasty boats are a fun and healthy way to enjoy taco flavors in a new way!
Can I Use Other Proteins in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based proteins like lentils or black beans for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose!
How Can I Modify This Recipe for a Lower-Carb Version?
If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and skip the corn. You could also serve the stuffed zucchini with a side salad instead of rice or tortillas!
What Should I Do With Leftover Zucchini Boats?
Leftover stuffed zucchini boats can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through, or microwave them for a quicker option!
Can I Make These Zucchini Boats Vegetarian?
Yes, definitely! Replace the ground beef with a mix of beans (like black beans or pinto beans), quinoa, or lentils. Add in extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and texture!
