Stuffed Zucchini Boats With Spanish Ground Beef And Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Spanish Ground Beef and Rice is the perfect combination of fresh, hearty, and comforting. The zucchini boats are tender yet sturdy enough to hold a flavorful filling of ground beef and seasoned rice. With the addition of Spanish spices like paprika, cumin, and garlic, this dish is packed with bold flavors. It’s easy to customize with your choice of vegetables or cheese and is a great way to use up extra zucchini. Plus, it’s a low-carb alternative to traditional stuffed peppers or casserole dishes, making it a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchini

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 cup cooked rice

• 1/2 onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced

• 1/2 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

• 1/4 tsp chili powder (optional, for extra spice)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Spanish manchego)

• 1 tbsp olive oil for cooking

• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Slice the zucchini in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out the center of each zucchini half to create a hollow “boat,” leaving about 1/4-inch of zucchini around the edges. Set the scooped-out zucchini aside for later.

3. Place the zucchini boats on a baking sheet, drizzle them with a little olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes until the zucchini is slightly tender but still firm.

4. While the zucchini is roasting, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.

5. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

6. Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and chili powder (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.

7. Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) to the skillet and stir in the cooked rice. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

8. Remove the zucchini boats from the oven and spoon the beef and rice mixture into each boat, packing the filling in tightly.

9. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the stuffed zucchini boats and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

10. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Total time: 45 minutes

• Active time: 20 minutes

• Cooking time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version.

• Cheese Variations: Try using different cheeses such as feta, goat cheese, or a sharp cheddar to add a new twist to the flavor.

• Spicy Zucchini Boats: For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.

• Add More Veggies: You can add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini pulp to the beef and rice mixture for additional veggies and nutrients.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover stuffed zucchini boats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef. The dish will still be flavorful, but slightly lighter.

Can I use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice?

Yes, cauliflower rice can be used for a low-carb version of this recipe. It will alter the texture slightly, but still make for a great filling.

Can I freeze stuffed zucchini boats?

Yes, stuffed zucchini boats can be frozen before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake them from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until fully heated.

How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming too soft?

To prevent the zucchini from becoming too soft, be sure to roast it just until it starts to soften, not until it’s fully tender. You want the zucchini to hold its shape while still being easy to bite into.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the filling can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can then stuff the zucchini boats and bake them when ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can substitute the rice for quinoa, couscous, or even orzo pasta for a different texture. Just be sure to cook the substitute according to the package instructions before mixing it into the filling.

What other vegetables can I add to the stuffing?

You can add spinach, mushrooms, corn, or even diced tomatoes to the beef and rice mixture to make it even more flavorful and packed with nutrients.

How do I know when the zucchini boats are done?

The zucchini boats are done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender but not mushy. You can easily check by gently poking the zucchini with a fork to test its doneness.

Can I make these boats without cheese?

Yes, you can skip the cheese for a dairy-free version. You can also use dairy-free cheese alternatives if you prefer.

What can I serve with stuffed zucchini boats?

Stuffed zucchini boats pair well with a side of green salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple garlic bread.

Conclusion

Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Spanish Ground Beef and Rice is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of seasoned ground beef, rice, and zucchini is a winning one that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With plenty of room for customization, this dish can easily become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Spanish Ground Beef and Rice is a delicious and satisfying choice!