Ingredients
– 4 medium zucchini for the base of your boats
– 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning adds a herby touch
– Salt and pepper to taste for seasoning the shells
– 2 teaspoons olive oil used for cooking the filling
– 1 pound mild Italian sausage, casings removed provides the savory meat base
– 1/2 cup finely diced onion brings in sweetness and depth
– 1 teaspoon minced garlic infuses a punchy flavor
– 2 cups marinara sauce creates a rich, tomatoey filling
– 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese tops it off with gooey goodness
– 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for a fresh finish
– Cooking spray to coat the baking dish and prevent sticking
Instructions
1-Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 400°F and coat a large rectangular baking dish with cooking spray for easy cleanup.
2-Cut zucchini: Cut zucchini in half lengthwise and trim the stem ends, then scoop out the flesh using a spoon to create the boats.
3-Season zucchini shells: Sprinkle the zucchini shells with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and arrange them in the baking dish for seasoning.
4-Cook sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat and cook the sausage for 4-5 minutes, breaking it up as it browns.
5-Add onion and garlic: Add the diced onion and cook for another 4 minutes until softened, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds before seasoning with salt and pepper.
6-Simmer sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
7-Fill zucchini shells: Spoon the meat mixture evenly into the zucchini shells and top with shredded mozzarella cheese for that melty finish.
8-Bake: Bake for 25 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
9-Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving to add a burst of freshness.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🌭 Substitute mild or hot Italian sausage, pork/turkey sausage, or ground beef.
🍅 Use any marinara sauce for versatility.
🥒 Add the scooped zucchini flesh to the meat mixture to reduce waste and enhance flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 zucchini boat
- Calories: 345
- Sugar: 11 grams
- Sodium: 619 milligrams
- Fat: 23 grams
- Saturated Fat: 16 grams
- Carbohydrates: 16 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Protein: 25 grams
- Cholesterol: 102 milligrams