30-Min Ground Beef Zucchini Boats

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchini, preferably firm and fresh
• 1 pound ground beef (lean) or ground turkey
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1/2 cup diced onion, yellow or white
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash the zucchini thoroughly under running water, slice in half lengthwise and scoop out the center to create a boat shape.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
5. Stir in the reserved zucchini flesh, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 3–5 minutes.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and spoon the beef mixture into the hollowed zucchini halves.
7. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the st￭ zucchini boats.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.