Looking for a delicious and healthy twist on traditional tacos? Look no further than these Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats! Bursting with flavor and packed with all the classic taco ingredients you love, this dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s both satisfying and guilt-free. Ready to impress your family and friends with this Mexican-inspired delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your zucchini boats cook evenly and thoroughly.
- Wash the zucchinis under cold water and dry them with a paper towel. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise to create the boats. Use a spoon to scoop out some of the flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch of zucchini on the sides to hold the filling.
- In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add the taco seasoning to the beef along with 1/4 cup of water. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- While the beef is simmering, prepare the zucchini boats. Place them cut-side up in a baking dish. If desired, you can lightly brush the insides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper for added flavor.
- Once the beef mixture is ready, remove it from heat and stir in the salsa. Mix well until the salsa is evenly distributed throughout the beef.
- Evenly distribute the taco beef mixture into each zucchini boat, packing it in gently to ensure they are filled adequately.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top of each stuffed zucchini boat, covering the beef mixture.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes. This will help the zucchini soften while the flavors meld together.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once finished, remove the zucchini boats from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
- Serve your taco stuffed zucchini boats warm, either as a main dish or as a side. Enjoy your delicious Mexican-inspired meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Zucchini: Opt for medium-sized zucchinis for the perfect balance between size and tenderness. They should be firm and free of blemishes for the best results.
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to get creative with your filling! Add black beans, corn, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor and texture. You can also substitute ground beef with turkey or a plant-based alternative for a healthier option.
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: The taco seasoning is key to achieving that authentic taco flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, try making your own seasoning blend with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the zucchini boats and filling in advance. Just assemble them and store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake. This makes for a quick weeknight dinner!
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for an added burst of flavor. Avocado slices or jalapeños can also add a delicious kick!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg
