Healthy Recipe Ideas

18 Best Stuffed Zucchini Recipes

By Christine Johnson

July 18, 2023

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5 from 2 votes

Zucchini might seem like a throwaway ingredient at first, but I’m here to show you one of the best ways to enjoy this bland-tasting squash: stuffed zucchini.

Loaded Zucchini boats: Zucchini stuffed with meat, vegetables and cheese. — freeskyline/Shutterstock

If you haven’t tried this zucchini variation yet, prepare to be blown away. Not only is it a fantastic way to get more veggies in your diet, but it also help cut down on carbs. It’s also a great way to use up those giant zucchinis from the garden that seem to double in size overnight.

I have a recipe here for every palate, whether you’re craving the zesty flavors of the Middle East or a taste of Italian comfort food.

So check out these stuffed zucchini recipes for a unique way to use up the abundant summer squash.

1. Easy Stuffed Zucchini Boats

After one bite of these tasty stuffed zucchini boats, you’ll definitely want to hop on board. Picture it: garden-fresh zucchini generously stuffed with a rich, zesty meat sauce. You create the decadent filling from either beef or Italian sausage, whichever floats your boat better. A sprinkle of cheese on top creates a layer of gooey goodness, adding the finishing touch to this heavenly dish. Plus, this recipe is a breeze to make. With 15 minutes of prep time, you’re in for one easy-yet-impressive treat.

2. Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms

Are you craving Italian for dinner tonight? Indulge in these delicate stuffed zucchini blossoms- I promise you won’t regret it. These little bites of heaven are filled with ricotta, mozzarella, and romano cheese. A pinch of granulated garlic adds a nice subtle kick, and a dusting of sea salt and black pepper further enhances the flavor. This recipe is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for a sophisticated appetizer or a unique side dish. Enjoy a taste of Italy right in your kitchen!

3. Giant Sausage Stuffed Zucchini

This zucchini recipe really showcases the potential of this underrated summer squash. First, let’s start with the Italian sausage, the star of the dish. It brings a robust flavor to the front, pairing beautifully with the mild sweetness of zucchini. Then, you create a savory stuffing from onions, garlic, fresh breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese, just to name a handful of ingredients. This recipe might seem gourmet, but it’s straightforward to make. You can even prepare it for a simple weeknight dinner for a satisfying meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

4. Stuffed Zucchini with Ground Beef

Looking for a hearty, stick-to-your-bones meal for dinner? Check out this stuffed zucchini with ground beef. This recipe boasts a delicious blend of savory ground beef, fresh herbs, tomatoes, and rice, all encased in a tender zucchini shell. A handful of mozzarella cheese is the icing on the cake, adding a creamy finish to this tasty stuffed squash. Not only is this recipe packed with mouthwatering flavor, but it’s super easy to prepare. This versatile meal will surely be a hit with everyone at your table.

5. Vegetarian Stuffed Zucchini

Bookmark this recipe for the next time you need a comforting vegetarian dish for dinner. It’s a great way to enjoy a meatless meal that’s hearty and satisfying. It features hollowed-out zucchini filled to the brim with veggies, panko crumbs, and a duo of parmesan and Romano cheeses. The recipe is straightforward to follow and results in a dish that will have you drooling as soon as you lock eyes with it.

6. Zucchini and Stuffing Casserole

This recipe is a tasty twist on the classic stuffed zucchini. Instead of packing your squash with yummy ingredients, you turn it into a comforting casserole. You pair the zucchini with shredded carrots and seasoned bread cubes, all brought together with a creamy chicken soup and sour cream mixture. It’s a versatile dish easily adapted to include your favorite veggies. You can even add some diced chicken for a heartier meal.

7. Vegetarian Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Rice

All aboard to vegetarian, zucchini boat heaven! This wholesome recipe combines garden-fresh zucchini stuffed with rice, tomatoes, and melted cheese. It’s a light-yet-satisfying dinner option that transcends seasons. It’s comforting enough to indulge in during a winter snow storm, but won’t weigh you down during a heat wave. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate your favorite cheese or even a vegan alternative. Throw on some feta for some extra tang, or Daiya to keep it plant-based.

8. Vegan Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Chickpeas

This vegan recipe offers a delicious twist on stuffed zucchini, using chickpeas for a protein-packed filling. Bell peppers add a pop of color and flavor, while a homemade vegan cheese sauce brings a creamy, comforting element. You can also customize it with your favorite veggies and beans. Got some spinach and lentils kicking around? Toss those in! Whether you need a weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch, this simple, satisfying recipe has you covered.

9. Kousa Mashi (Lebanese Stuffed Zucchini)

Transform bland squash into a flavorful masterpiece with this amazing vegan Lebanese stuffed zucchini recipe. Each zucchini is filled to the brim with a zesty mix of spiced veggies, toasted pine nuts, and rice, all simmered in a savory tomato broth. It’s a comforting, filling meal that’s also gluten, soy, and oil-free. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber. How can it get better than that?

10. Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Wanna give your tacos a fun spin? Try using zucchini boats as the shell! It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of a taco in a healthier, low-carb way. The filling consists of your usual taco staples: ground beef, onions, garlic, and spices, topped with melted cheese, salsa, and sour cream. Whether you’re following a keto diet or just trying to eat more veggies, this recipe deserves a spot in your meal plan.

11. Turkey Marinara Stuffed Zucchini

This recipe shows you how to create a hearty stuffed zucchini with ground turkey, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella on top. It’s the perfect low-carb, high-protein meal that’s great for meal prep. Why not try it this week?

12. Creamy Chicken Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Cure your Monday blues with this insanely comforting dinner, perfect for weeknights. You start by baking zucchini until it’s nice and tender, then fill it with a mixture of chicken, tomatoes, and a creamy sauce. After generously garnishing with cheese, bake it again until golden brown. Prepare yourself for the mouthwatering cheese pull with each delicious forkful. Not only is this recipe super tasty, but it’s also practical and budget-friendly. It makes a great candidate for meal prep, as you can make the filling in advance.

13. Ricotta Stuffed Zucchini

This recipe pretty much tastes like summer served up on a platter. Between the zucchini, zesty lemon, creamy ricotta, and pungent parsley, you’re looking at one breezy meal. It’s a simple-yet-flavorful dish perfect for a light lunch or a side dish. Plus, any leftover stuffing makes a great spread for crusty Italian bread.

14. Low Carb and Keto Stuffed Zucchini Boats

This recipe is a protein powerhouse, with a whopping 34 grams per serving. After chowing down this hearty meal for lunch, you can expect to stay full all the way to dinner time. Plus, it’s super tasty. Well-seasoned ground turkey, rich marinara sauce, and a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheese nestle into a baked zucchini boat. How delicious does that sound?

15. Italian Stuffed Zucchini Boats

This Italian-inspired dish is a low-carb wonder! Each zucchini boat is packed with lean ground turkey, fresh veggies, and topped with a sprinkle of cheese and toasted bread crumbs. After simmering in a simple jarred marinara, the bland squash soaks up all the rich, tomato-y flavors, resulting in an uber-delicious meal. It’s a wholesome, family-friendly main entree that’s super easy to whip up.

16. Greek Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Savor the best flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with this easy, 30-minute recipe! Stuffed with nutty quinoa, salty feta cheese, creamy chickpeas, and briny olives, these zucchini boats bring an incredible burst of flavor. The lemon juice and zest add a refreshing touch, making it a perfect dish to brighten up your day. Plus, they’re great for meal prep and can be easily reheated.

17. 3-Cheese Zucchini Boats

If you’re looking for something cheesy to indulge in, check out this show-stopping zucchini boat recipe. Each boat is packed with not one, but three types of cheese for extra delicious gooey goodness. Sauteed veggies add a crunchy contrast, while Italian seasoning brings a burst of flavor. It’s a low-carb meal that will definitely be a hit with the fam. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up!

18. Chorizo Stuffed Zucchini

Where can you go wrong with a filling consisting of chorizo and cheese? I mean, these two ingredients were practically made to go together. Along with this heavenly duo, you stuff these zucchini boats with some extra veggies and cilantro to cut through the heaviness. It’s a quick and easy dinner option that’s sure to satisfy.

Loaded Zucchini boats: Zucchini stuffed with meat, vegetables and cheese.

18 Best Stuffed Zucchini Recipes

These stuffed zucchini recipes transform bland squash into a healthy, filling meal that's low in carbs but big in flavor.

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