Meatball Zucchini Boats
Ingredients
- 3 -4 medium zucchini
halved lengthwise
- 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1/4 c. freshly chopped parsley
plus more for garnish
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves
minced
- 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp. vegetable oil
- 2 c. marinara sauce
use sugar-free if you're keto!
- 1 c. shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 c. freshly grated Parmesan
Directions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350°. Score zucchini (like you’re dicing an avocado) and scoop out insides into a large bowl. Place in a shallow baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bake 12 to 15 minutes, until mostly tender. Remove from oven and turn broiler to high.
- 2
Make meatballs: In a large bowl, mix together beef, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and red pepper flakes. Form into 24 meatballs.
- 3
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat vegetable oil. Add meatballs in a single layer and sear on all sides until a nice crispy crust develops, about 2 minutes per side.
- 4
Pour marinara around the meatballs and stir until the meatballs are fully sauced. Simmer for 10 more minutes. Remove from heat.
- 5
Fill zucchini boats with meatballs and top with mozzarella. Broil until cheese is melty, 3 to 5 minutes. Garnish with Parmesan and parsley and serve hot.
Meatball Zucchini Boats
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About this Recipe
Looking for a hearty, comforting dinner that's packed with flavor and lighter on carbs? These Meatball Zucchini Boats transform a classic meatball dish into a satisfying, family-friendly meal.
This recipe stands out by using tender zucchini as the perfect vessel for savory, well-seasoned meatballs, creating a delightful dinner experience. It cleverly combines the beloved flavors of meatballs and marinara with a fresh, wholesome twist, making it a true meatball dinner delight.
You're in for a truly comforting and flavorful experience. Imagine tender zucchini, perfectly cooked, cradling a generous portion of juicy, seasoned ground beef meatballs. Each bite brings together the rich tang of marinara sauce, complemented by the savory depth of garlic and Italian seasoning from the meatballs. A blanket of gooey, melted mozzarella and sharp Parmesan cheese crowns it all, promising a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. It’s a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet remains wonderfully balanced.
Customization & Variations
Feel free to make these Meatball Zucchini Boats your own.
- While ground beef is classic, you could experiment with ground turkey or a blend for a leaner option.
- If you're following a keto lifestyle, remember to use a sugar-free marinara sauce as indicated.
- For an extra kick, a pinch more crushed red pepper flakes can brighten the flavors.
- You could even sneak in finely diced bell peppers or mushrooms into the meatball mixture for added vegetables.
These boats are ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, offering a complete meal in one delightful package. Serve them fresh from the oven, garnished with extra chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.