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Ground Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe Easy Homemade Mozzarella Filling

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A simple, satisfying recipe featuring zucchini boats stuffed with a savory ground turkey filling and topped with melty mozzarella cheese. Perfect for quick weeknight meals or casual lunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium zucchini (6–8 inches long, firm and fresh)
  • 1 pound (450 grams) lean ground turkey
  • 1 cup (100 grams) shredded or small chunks mozzarella cheese
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley or basil), chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Rinse and dry the zucchini, then slice each in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and some flesh, creating a hollow boat about 1/4 inch thick. Finely chop the scooped flesh and set aside.
  3. Lightly salt the zucchini boats and place them cut side up on a baking dish. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat dry with a paper towel.
  4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  6. Stir in tomato paste and chopped zucchini flesh. Cook for 2-3 more minutes to blend flavors, then remove from heat. Stir in fresh herbs.
  7. Use a spoon or small scoop to fill each zucchini half generously with the turkey mixture, packing it down lightly.
  8. Top each boat with shredded mozzarella and sprinkle Parmesan cheese if desired.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until zucchini is tender and cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
  10. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Salt the zucchini and let it sit to draw out moisture to prevent sogginess. Pat dry before stuffing. Drain any excess liquid during baking if needed. Use fresh herbs for best flavor. You can mix some mozzarella into the filling for creamier texture. For dairy-free, substitute cheese with plant-based alternatives or nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground turkey, zucchini boats, stuffed zucchini, mozzarella, easy dinner, healthy recipe, weeknight meal, low carb, gluten-free

Find it online: https://lirafood.com/ground-turkey-stuffed-zucchini-boats-recipe-easy-homemade-mozzarella-filling/