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 ground beef; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 cup diced onions; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Fresh Wellness Table

I love making Beef And Veggie Stuffed Zucchini for a flavorful and healthy meal. The combination of juicy ground beef, fresh vegetables, and tender zucchini delivers impressive flavor while being surprisingly easy to prepare. In just under an hour, you can serve a dish that looks gourmet and appeals to both adults and kids alike. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables! Join me as we create this delicious meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:17:35.662Z

When I first made Beef And Veggie Stuffed Zucchini, I was amazed at how much flavor could fit into such a low-carb package! Using tender zucchini as a vessel for a hearty filling made it a wholesome choice for dinner. I often customize the veggies based on what I have on hand, which gives this dish a different twist every time.

What makes this recipe successful is the balance of seasonings and the careful cooking of the stuffing before it meets the zucchini. Sautéing the garlic and onions first releases their essential oils, making each bite bursting with flavor. Trust me, this dish is a must-try for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicious savory filling packed with protein and nutrients
Zucchini provides a nutritious and low-carb alternative to traditional stuffed dishes
A colorful and appealing presentation that is perfect for impressing guests
Easily adaptable based on personal taste or seasonal veggies

Choosing the Right Zucchini

When selecting zucchinis for this stuffed dish, look for firm and shiny ones that are medium-sized. Avoid ones that are too large, as they can be overly watery and fibrous, resulting in a mushy texture. The skin should be a vibrant green without blemishes, indicating freshness. If you have access to different zucchini varieties, consider mixing them for an added flavor profile and visual appeal. Yellow and striped zucchinis can introduce an exciting twist to this classic dish.

To prepare the zucchinis, cutting them in half lengthwise and scooping out the centers is essential to create enough space for the filling. Use a small spoon or a melon baller to carefully remove the flesh, making sure to leave about a quarter-inch border. This ensures the zucchinis maintain their structure during baking while providing enough room for a generous filling.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

The savory filling is key to the success of your stuffed zucchinis. Incorporating ingredients like diced tomatoes or mushrooms can further amplify the flavor and moisture in the filling. For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of Worcestershire sauce while cooking the ground beef. These additions balance the richness of the beef and lend a deeper umami flavor to the final dish.

If you're looking to make the recipe more health-conscious or vegetarian-friendly, you could substitute ground beef with lentils or quinoa. Both alternatives offer a hearty texture and can absorb the flavors of the seasonings beautifully. If you choose lentils, cook them until tender before folding them into the vegetable mix for stuffing.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Zucchini

4 medium zucchinis
1 pound ground beef
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup diced onions
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Halve the zucchinis lengthwise and scoop out the centers to create boats.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until softened. Then, add the ground beef, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned.

Stuff the Zucchini

Fill each zucchini boat with the beef and vegetable mixture. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs mixed with parsley.

Bake

Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish and add a little water to the bottom of the dish. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the ground beef with turkey or a plant-based option for a different flavor profile. Adding a dollop of marinara sauce before baking can make this dish even more indulgent.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover stuffed zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheating in the oven is preferred for retaining the integrity of the filling and zucchini. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the stuffed zucchinis for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This method preserves the crispy topping and avoids a soggy texture that microwave reheating can cause.

For longer storage, you can freeze the already cooked stuffed zucchini. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They should maintain their quality for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven as described.

Serving Suggestions

To complement your Beef and Veggie Stuffed Zucchini, consider serving them with a light salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. A simple arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette can enhance the dish's flavors without overwhelming it. For extra protein, a side of grilled chicken or a chickpea salad would pair wonderfully.

If you're preparing this meal for guests, consider garnishing the stuffed zucchinis with additional fresh herbs, such as basil or cilantro, just before serving. This not only enhances the visual presentation but also uplifts the overall flavor. Placing the stuffed zucchinis on a vibrant serving platter can make an attractive centerpiece for your dining table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed zucchinis in advance, cover them, and store them in the refrigerator. Bake when ready to eat.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add mushrooms, spinach, or carrots to the filling for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I freeze stuffed zucchini?

Yes, these stuffed zucchinis freeze well. Just make sure they are cooked and cooled completely before freezing in an airtight container.