Stuffed Zucchini Halves
Tender zucchini halves are stuffed with a savory hamburger mixture, baked with tomato sauce and cheese for a comforting, versatile dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the ends off the zucchini and slice them lengthwise.
- Hollow out the seeds with a spoon to create a hollow space for stuffing.
- Mix hamburger meat with all other ingredients except tomato sauce.
- Stuff the zucchini halves with the prepared mixture.
- Cover the stuffed zucchini with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven and pour tomato sauce over the zucchini.
- Return to oven uncovered and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until cheese is melted, if using cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger meat. You can also substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal for a vegan option. If you prefer a bit of heat, mix in some diced jalapeños. This dish can be made ahead of time; just assemble and refrigerate until ready to bake. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed zucchini halves warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. They pair wonderfully with a light green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside crusty bread or brown rice. This dish complements well with the flavors of Easy Pork Chops One Pan Dinner In 30 Minutes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the zucchini in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Zucchini Halves contains roughly 380 calories, with 6g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (12% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2131mg per serving (93% 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 use different types of meat for the stuffing?
Yes, you can substitute the hamburger meat with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. Adjust the seasoning to your preference, as different meats have varying flavors.
What can I do if I don't have tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes as a substitute. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a tablespoon of tomato paste mixed with water.
Can I freeze the stuffed zucchini?
Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed zucchini before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap each half tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
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).