Italian Stuffed Zucchini Boats

A high-protein, macro-friendly dinner that tastes like lasagna without the pasta.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 (2 zucchini halves per serving)

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchini

• 1 lb 96% lean ground beef

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 cup marinara sauce (look for a lower-sugar variety)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 1 cup reduced-fat shredded mozzarella

• 2 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or sheet pan.

2. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out the center, leaving about a ¼-inch border to create boats. Finely chop about 1 cup of the scooped zucchini flesh and set aside.

3. Arrange the zucchini boats in the baking dish. Lightly season with salt and pepper.

4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess liquid if needed.

5. Add the garlic and chopped zucchini flesh. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.

6. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 1 minute to deepen the flavor.

7. Add the marinara, Italian seasoning, oregano, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

8. Remove from heat and stir in half of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, and 1 tablespoon of the parsley.

9. Spoon the filling evenly into each zucchini boat. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

10. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.

11. Broil for 1–2 minutes if you'd like extra bubbly, golden cheese.

12. Garnish with the remaining parsley and fresh basil before serving.

Estimated Macros

Per serving (2 zucchini halves):

• Calories: ~335

• Protein: 38g

• Carbohydrates: 12g

• Fat: 14g

• Fiber: 3g

Macros will vary slightly depending on your marinara and cheese brands.