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 pound lean ground beef; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1/2 cup chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar); Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Collection

I love making Beef and Veggie Stuffed Zucchini, especially during the summer when zucchini is at its peak. This dish combines the rich, savory flavors of ground beef with a medley of fresh vegetables, all nestled inside tender zucchini shells. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a great way to sneak in extra veggies for those who might be a bit picky. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile weeknight meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Created by

Elspeth Murray

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:14:35.787Z

When I first decided to make Beef and Veggie Stuffed Zucchini, I had no idea how flavorful and satisfying it would turn out. I wanted to create a dish that was not only delicious but also healthy. By using lean ground beef and loading it up with colorful vegetables like bell peppers and onions, I ended up with a nutritious and hearty meal that everyone loved.

One key tip I discovered is to pre-cook the filling slightly before stuffing the zucchini. This helps meld the flavors together and ensures the filling is perfectly done once the zucchini is baked. It's a little extra step, but it really makes a big difference in taste!

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
A great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal
Simple to customize with whatever veggies you have on hand
A hearty dish that's still relatively light and healthy

Choosing the Right Zucchini

When selecting zucchinis for this recipe, opt for medium-sized ones that are firm and free of blemishes. Larger zucchinis can become watery and may not hold their shape as well when baked. Look for bright, shiny skin; this indicates freshness. If possible, try to find zucchinis that are about 7-8 inches long. They tend to have a better ratio of flesh to seeds, making them perfect for stuffing.

Also, consider the color of the zucchini. While green zucchini is the most common choice, yellow zucchinis can add a vibrant color and slightly different flavor to your dish. You can mix and match them to make your plate visually appealing while boosting the nutritional profile of your meal.

Techniques for Flavorful Filling

The flavor of the filling is crucial for delicious stuffed zucchinis. Start by sautéing the onions and garlic until they are translucent and fragrant, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes on medium heat. This builds a strong flavor base before adding the ground beef. Browning the beef well will develop a deeper flavor, so cook it until nicely browned with no pink remaining, about 5-7 minutes.

For added depth, consider incorporating different spices or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce when cooking the beef. This enhances the savory profile of the filling. Don't shy away from adding other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach. Just be sure to chop them finely and cook them down to release moisture before mixing them with your beef for the best texture.

Make-Ahead and Customization Options

If you want to save time on a busy weeknight, you can prepare the stuffed zucchinis in advance. After stuffing them, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to increase the baking time by a few extra minutes if they go into the oven straight from the fridge to ensure they are heated through and the cheese is melted.

Feel free to get creative with the cheese topping! While mozzarella and cheddar work beautifully, experimenting with varieties like pepper jack for a spicy kick or feta for a tangy contrast can add a whole new layer of flavor. To make it dairy-free, simply substitute with a vegan cheese alternative that melts well.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients listed below before you start cooking.

Ingredients

4 medium zucchinis
1 pound lean ground beef
1 cup diced bell peppers
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create a delicious Beef and Veggie Stuffed Zucchini.

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the center, creating boats. Set aside the scooped-out flesh for later use.

Cook the Beef and Vegetables

In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Stir in the bell peppers, tomatoes, and the reserved zucchini flesh. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Stuff the Zucchini

Spoon the beef and veggie mixture into each zucchini boat, filling them generously. Top each with shredded cheese.

Bake the Dish

Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Once out of the oven, let cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Beef and Veggie Stuffed Zucchini!

Pro Tips

Try using different types of cheese or adding spices like paprika for an extra kick. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed zucchinis can be served as a standout main dish or as an impressive side. For a complete meal, pair them with a side salad or some garlic bread to soak up delicious juices. If you're hosting, slice the zucchinis into smaller, bite-sized pieces for easy sharing. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the dish and add a sweet contrast to the savory filling.

Garnishing the stuffed zucchinis with fresh basil not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fragrant touch. You could also consider topping them with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an added layer of warmth, which can make the dish even more exciting and appealing.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store any uneaten stuffed zucchinis in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the microwave for a quick meal, but for best results, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to maintain the texture of both the zucchini and cheese.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed zucchinis before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and they will keep well for up to three months. When ready to use, you can bake them straight from frozen; just increase the baking time to about 45-50 minutes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes that will still give you a delicious result.

→ How do I know when the zucchini is cooked?

The zucchini should be tender but still hold its shape. You can test by piercing it with a fork.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed zucchini?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked stuffed zucchini. Just place them in an airtight container and bake from frozen; they may need a few extra minutes in the oven.

→ What other veggies can I add?

You can add mushrooms, spinach, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!