Beef And Veggie Stuffed Zucchini

Name: Beef And Veggie Stuffed Zucchini
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis; 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm & Tasty

As someone who loves a hearty meal yet seeks to maintain a healthy lifestyle, I find Beef and Veggie Stuffed Zucchini to be an ideal choice. The combination of seasoned ground beef and colorful vegetables, all encased in tender zucchini, creates a delicious and visually appealing dish. It’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week. Not to mention, it’s incredibly satisfying and packed with nutrients. I can't wait to share how easy it is to whip this up in no time!

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:32:37.019Z

When I first experimented with stuffed zucchini, I was amazed at how vibrant and versatile it could be. The juicy goodness of the ground beef genuinely pairs well with fresh herbs and the sweet crunch of bell peppers and onions. I realized that by roasting the zucchini just right, you can achieve a lovely softness that holds all the filling beautifully.

Another tip I discovered is to lightly season the stuffing before cooking; it enhances the flavors while they meld together in the oven. Each bite bursts with flavor and texture, making it a go-to recipe for me that never fails to impress!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling while still being nutritious
Tasty combination of tender zucchini with savory filling
Perfectly versatile for meal prep or entertaining

The Benefits of Zucchini

Zucchini is not only a low-calorie vegetable but also a versatile one, making it ideal for dishes like this stuffed zucchini. Its mild flavor absorbs the spices and seasonings wonderfully, allowing the heartiness of the beef and the zest of the vegetables to shine through. Choosing medium zucchinis is key; they hold up well during baking without becoming too mushy, ensuring that they provide a nice bite when served.

When preparing the zucchinis, it's important to scoop out enough of the center but leave a sturdy wall to hold the filling. A grapefruit spoon works particularly well for this task. Aim for about a quarter-inch of zucchini flesh remaining, which keeps the structure intact while contributing to the overall flavor of the dish.

Flavor Enhancements

Using fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano, can elevate the flavor profile of your stuffed zucchini. A tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs can be added to the filling for an aromatic punch. If you're in a pinch, dried herbs work just fine, but fresh options bring a vibrant taste to the table.

For spice lovers, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for additional heat. This can transform the dish into a comforting meal with a bit of a kick, appealing to those who enjoy robust flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious stuffed zucchini.

Main Ingredients

4 medium zucchinis
1 lb ground beef
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to wash and prepare all ingredients before you begin stuffing.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Beef and Veggie Stuffed Zucchini!

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to create boats.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic, cooking until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Stuff the Zucchini

Spoon the beef and veggie mixture into the hollowed zucchinis, packing it tightly. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top.

Bake

Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the zucchini is tender.

Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Enjoy this nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch. Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for beef, making this dish lighter yet equally delicious.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover stuffed zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil to maintain moisture, baking for about 15-20 minutes. This method ensures that the zucchini remains tender while the filling doesn't dry out.

If you anticipate making this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and assemble the zucchinis just before baking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors in the filling to develop further, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Variations to Try

For a healthier twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. These leaner meats provide a similar texture and can absorb the surrounding flavors beautifully. Additionally, incorporating quinoa or brown rice into the filling can add fiber and make the dish even more filling.

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with lentils or a medley of your favorite beans mixed with additional vegetables. The recipe is easily adaptable, allowing you to experiment with seasonal produce, such as adding corn in the summer or even mushrooms for extra earthiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the stuffed zucchinis in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the zucchinis and filling ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Just stuff and bake when you're ready to eat.

→ What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed zucchini?

Yes, you can freeze stuffed zucchinis before baking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.