Beef-Stuffed Zucchini

Total Time

Prep/Total Time: 30 min.

Makes

4 servings

Updated: Jun. 30, 2023
This ground beef and zucchini recipe is a delightful summer meal. For a change of pace, substitute your favorite barbecue sauce for the marinara in this baked stuffed zucchini. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Beef-Stuffed Zucchini Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Ingredients

  • 4 medium zucchini
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 3/4 cup marinara or pasta sauce
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup seasoned bread crumbs
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided

Directions

  1. Cut zucchini in half lengthwise; cut a thin slice from the bottom of each with a sharp knife to allow zucchini to sit flat. Scoop out pulp, leaving 1/4-in. shells.
  2. Place shells in an ungreased 3-qt. microwave-safe dish. Cover and microwave on high for 3 minutes or until crisp-tender; drain and set aside.
  3. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook beef, onion and zucchini pulp over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Remove from the heat; stir in the marinara sauce, egg, bread crumbs, salt, pepper and 1/2 cup cheese.
  4. Spoon about 1/4 cup into each shell. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 4 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Microwave 3-4 minutes longer or until a thermometer inserted into filling reads 160° and zucchini are tender. If desired, broil zucchini 3 in. from the heat for 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown. Serve with additional marinara sauce.
Microwave-1,100 watt
This recipe was tested in a 1,100-watt microwave.

Nutrition Facts

2 stuffed zucchini halves: 420 calories, 25g fat (11g saturated fat), 143mg cholesterol, 735mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 33g protein.