Stuffed Zucchini with Ground Beef

Name: Stuffed Zucchini with Ground Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis; 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love making stuffed zucchini with ground beef because it combines my favorite flavors in such a wholesome dish. The zucchini becomes tender and absorbs all the delicious juices from the beef, making every bite a delight. I often serve this dish when I have guests over, as it’s hearty yet healthy, and you can customize the filling to everyone's taste. Whether paired with a crisp salad or enjoyed on its own, this recipe never fails to impress and satisfy.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:22:27.839Z

Whenever I cook stuffed zucchini with ground beef, I remember the first time I experimented with this recipe. I decided to try adding a blend of spices like cumin and paprika, and the result was a flavorful explosion! My family couldn't get enough of it and asked for seconds. The key is to balance the filling with vegetables, which brings a wonderful freshness to every bite.

One important tip I've learned is to pre-cook the zucchini shells for about 5 minutes before stuffing them. This step ensures that the zucchini is tender but still holds its shape, allowing for a perfect presentation. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, making it a go-to meal for my busy weeknights.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Savory ground beef mixed with aromatic spices
Healthy and vibrant vegetable base
Easily customizable for various dietary preferences

      

Mastering Zucchini Prep

When preparing your zucchinis, it's essential to choose medium-sized specimens for optimal tenderness and flavor absorption. Larger zucchinis can be watery and less flavorful. As you scoop out the insides, aim for about a quarter-inch thickness to maintain structural integrity while providing enough space for the filling. I use a small spoon or a melon baller for this task, which allows for precision without damaging the outer shell.

If you're concerned about excess moisture, you can sprinkle a little salt inside the hollowed zucchinis and let them sit for about 15 minutes before rinsing and patting dry. This step helps draw out extra water, ensuring your filling remains intact and flavorful during baking. You'll notice the zucchinis have become slightly softer — perfect for holding the savory ground beef mixture.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

While the classic combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and spices is delicious on its own, consider experimenting with additional ingredients to elevate your stuffed zucchinis. Adding chopped bell peppers or carrots to the beef mixture not only enhances the texture but also increases the nutritional value. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can also impart wonderful brightness to the filling — I find that a teaspoon of mixed dried herbs works beautifully.

For those looking to reduce fat or experiment with flavors, swapping ground beef for ground turkey or chicken is a great option. Alternatively, for a vegetarian twist, substitute the meat with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or quinoa, along with your favorite spices. These variations provide endless possibilities depending on dietary needs or ingredient availability.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delightful stuffed zucchini dish:

For the Stuffed Zucchini

4 medium zucchinis
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Now that you have all the ingredients, let's move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your stuffed zucchini:

Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, creating boats for the filling.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Stuff the Zucchini

Fill each zucchini half with the beef mixture. If desired, sprinkle cheese on top of the filling.

Bake

Arrange the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is golden.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your delicious stuffed zucchini with ground beef!

Your stuffed zucchini is ready to be served. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the beef filling for added nutrition. If you're looking to lighten up the dish, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef.

Storing and Reheating

You can prepare stuffed zucchini ahead of time for quick meals during busy weeks. After stuffing the zucchinis, simply cover them tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight, making your dish even more flavorful when cooked. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven cold.

If you have leftovers, store the cooked zucchini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through, or use the microwave for quicker results — just be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal visually appealing and well-rounded, consider serving the stuffed zucchinis with a side salad that incorporates fresh greens, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette. The brightness of the salad complements the rich, hearty taste of the zucchinis, balancing the meal wonderfully. Adding a touch of lemon juice to the salad can also enhance the overall flavor profile.

If you're looking to elevate this dish further, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crumbled feta on top can add a delicious creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the savory filling. For a little extra crunch, try serving with a side of crusty bread or whole grain couscous, which can soak up the flavorful juices from the zucchini.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative, and even plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover stuffed zucchini can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed zucchinis a day in advance. Just cover them with foil and store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ What sides go well with stuffed zucchini?

A fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement this dish beautifully.