This Savory Stuffed Zucchini with Meat and Mushroom Filling is a deliciously hearty and nutritious dish, featuring zucchini boats filled with seasoned minced meat, mushrooms, and spices. Baked to perfection, these stuffed zucchini boats are versatile, flavorful, and great for any meal, whether it’s a family dinner, meal prep, or a wholesome lunch.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Active Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Zucchini Base
- Zucchini: 2 large or 4 small, halved and hollowed out (reserve the insides for extra filling if desired)
- Olive Oil: 1-2 tbsp
- Dried Garlic: 1 tsp
- Oregano: 1 tsp
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Black Pepper: to taste
- Salt: to taste
Meat and Mushroom Filling
- Vegetable Oil: 1 tbsp (for frying)
- Minced Meat: 400 g (14 oz) or approximately 1 1/4 cups
- Salt: to taste
- Black Pepper: to taste
- Onion: 1, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
- Butter: 1 tbsp
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Mushrooms: 200 g (7 oz), sliced (about 1 1/2 cups)
- Paprika: 1 tsp
Directions
- Prepare the Zucchini Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Slice the zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the center, creating “boats” for the filling. Chop and reserve the scooped zucchini flesh to add to the filling if desired. Brush the zucchini halves with olive oil, then season with dried garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Place the zucchini on a baking tray, cut side up, and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat and Mushroom Filling Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced meat, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Push the meat to one side of the skillet, add butter, then the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms (and reserved zucchini flesh if using), sprinkle with paprika, and cook until mushrooms are soft and the moisture has evaporated, about 5-7 minutes. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
- Stuff and Bake the Zucchini Spoon the meat and mushroom filling into each zucchini boat, pressing down gently to fill evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the filling is golden on top.
- Serve and Enjoy Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty bread
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added color
- Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan or mozzarella before baking for a cheesy finish
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess
Cooking Tips
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner filling
- Add chopped bell peppers or carrots to the filling for extra veggies
- Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor
- Drain excess fat from the meat before adding mushrooms to avoid greasiness
- Bake covered with foil for a softer texture, then uncover for the last 10 minutes to brown
Nutritional Benefits
- Zucchini: High in fiber, low in calories, rich in vitamins A and C
- Mushrooms: Provide antioxidants, fiber, and B vitamins
- Minced Meat: A great source of protein and iron
- Olive Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free
- Nut-Free: Safe for those with nut allergies
- Low Carb: Suitable for low-carb diets
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving Estimate)
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Satisfying: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins
- Easy to Make: Simple prep with delicious results
- Family-Friendly: Great for all ages and easy to customize
- Versatile: Enjoy as a main or side dish
- Flavorful and Hearty: With savory meat, mushrooms, and spices, it’s full of comforting flavors
Conclusion
This Savory Stuffed Zucchini with Meat and Mushroom Filling offers a delicious blend of hearty flavors and textures, perfect for a wholesome meal. The combination of tender zucchini, seasoned meat, and mushrooms creates a dish that’s nutritious, filling, and versatile. Whether served as a main dish or a side, these stuffed zucchini boats are sure to impress and satisfy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other vegetables in the filling? Yes, bell peppers, carrots, or spinach would be great additions to the filling
- Is there a substitute for minced meat? Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat substitute work well in this recipe
- Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, replace the meat with lentils, chickpeas, or additional mushrooms for a vegetarian option
- What’s the best cheese to use if I want a cheesy topping? Mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan are ideal for melting and adding extra flavor
- Can I prepare the zucchini boats in advance? Yes, prepare the filling and zucchini boats ahead, then stuff and bake just before serving