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Savory Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Italian Sausage

stuffed zucchini boats - featured image
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A quick and easy recipe featuring tender zucchini boats stuffed with savory Italian sausage and melted mozzarella cheese, perfect for a comforting yet light meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium zucchinis (about 1 ½ pounds)
  • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup marinara sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Rinse and dry each zucchini. Slice them in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and some flesh, leaving about a ¼-inch thick shell. Set the scooped flesh aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  5. Add the Italian sausage to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
  6. Mix in the scooped zucchini flesh, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the marinara sauce. Let it cool slightly.
  8. Transfer the sausage mixture to a mixing bowl and stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
  9. Arrange the zucchini boats on a baking sheet. Brush the cut side lightly with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt.
  10. Spoon the sausage mixture evenly into each zucchini boat, packing it down a little but not overstuffing.
  11. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the tops.
  12. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until zucchini is tender and cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
  13. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley before serving.

Notes

Do not over-scoop the zucchini to keep the boats sturdy. Drain excess liquid from scooped zucchini flesh to avoid sogginess. Brown the sausage thoroughly for best flavor. Tent with foil if cheese browns too quickly. Can be cooked in an air fryer at 350°F for 15-20 minutes as an alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini boats, stuffed zucchini, Italian sausage recipe, easy dinner, weeknight meal, mozzarella cheese, savory zucchini

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/savory-stuffed-zucchini-boats-with-italian-sausage-easy-recipe/