Stuffed, Baked Zucchini Squash
Savory stuffed zucchini squash baked to perfection, filled with seasoned meat, oats, and cheese, offering a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Parboil zucchini; cool, cut lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
- Mix all ingredients except cheese: hamburger, onion, oatmeal, egg, salt, garlic flakes, barbecue sauce, black pepper.
- Stuff the mixture into the split zucchini halves.
- Top each with grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes until meat is browned and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider substituting ground turkey for hamburger. You can also use whole wheat breadcrumbs in place of quick oatmeal for added fiber. Make sure to not overboil the zucchini; they should be tender but still firm enough to hold the filling. Adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the stuffing mixture can enhance the flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed zucchini halves make a delightful main dish, perfect for a summer dinner. They pair beautifully with a side of Creamy Garden Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, serve alongside garlic bread or a bowl of Susan's Carrot Chowder. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra pop of flavor.
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 for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 3-4 minutes, but the oven method will help maintain the texture of the zucchini.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed, Baked Zucchini Squash contains roughly 824 calories, with 24g protein, 148g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (72% of the Daily Value), iron (61% of the Daily Value), and calcium (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1799mg per serving (78% 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 this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the hamburger with a mixture of black beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute. You may need to adjust the seasonings to enhance the flavor, but it will still be delicious and satisfying.
What other cheeses can I use besides Cheddar?
You can experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella for a milder flavor or pepper jack for added spice. Feta or goat cheese can also provide a nice tangy contrast if you're looking for something different.
Can I freeze stuffed zucchini?
Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed zucchini before baking. Just assemble them, wrap tightly, and store in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).