Savory Stuffed Zucchini
Savory stuffed zucchini features tender zucchini filled with a flavorful beef and vegetable mixture, topped with cheese — a hearty, family-friendly dish perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash zucchini; cook in boiling salt water for 5 minutes.
- Cut zucchini in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out seeds and discard.
- Sprinkle inside with salt and pepper.
- Melt butter in a skillet, add ground beef, chopped celery, and chopped onion; cook, stirring until browned.
- Add tomato sauce and bread crumbs; mix well.
- Spoon mixture into the cavity of each zucchini half and place in a shallow baking dish.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add grated cheese into the stuffing mixture for extra flavor. If you prefer, substitute the tomato sauce with salsa for a spicier kick. Make sure to not overcook the zucchini in boiling water to maintain some crunch. This dish pairs beautifully with Beef recipes for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these savory stuffed zucchinis warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added freshness. They make a fantastic side dish or main course, especially when paired with a light salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside American recipes like Meat Ball Chowder or a simple grilled vegetable platter.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them for quicker reheating, though the texture may be softer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Savory Stuffed Zucchini contains roughly 270 calories, with 11g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1973mg per serving (86% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make stuffed zucchini ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed zucchini a day in advance. Just assemble the zucchini with the filling and store them covered in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for the ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version. Additionally, cooked quinoa or lentils can be mixed in for a nutritious option.
Can I freeze stuffed zucchini?
It's best to freeze the stuffed zucchini before baking them. Wrap each zucchini half tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding additional baking time as needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).