A simple, juicy, and flavorful recipe that turns everyday ingredients into a delicious meal. The zucchini becomes tender while the seasoned ground beef filling gets a creamy touch and a golden, melted cheese topping.
Ingredients
For the zucchini:
- 3 medium zucchini
- 1 drizzle of olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
For the filling:
- 400 g ground beef
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tomato, diced and seeded
- 2 tablespoons tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, to taste
- 100 g shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
Instructions
- Wash the zucchini well and cut them in half lengthwise.
- Using a spoon, carefully scoop out some of the center, creating zucchini “boats.” Set the zucchini flesh aside.
- Place the zucchini boats on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet. Add the onion and sauté until softened. Add the garlic and cook for a few seconds.
- Add the ground beef and cook, stirring well, until browned and crumbly.
- Add the tomato, chopped zucchini flesh, and tomato sauce. Season with paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the filling is flavorful and not too watery.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the cream cheese and fresh herbs. This makes the filling extra creamy.
- Generously fill each zucchini boat with the ground beef mixture.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
Tip for an Extra Flavorful Result
Avoid overcooking the ground beef before baking. The filling should remain slightly moist and juicy, since it will continue cooking in the oven. For an irresistible golden topping, turn on the broiler for the last few minutes.