Beef and Rice Stuffed Zucchini Recipe

One evening, I had some extra zucchini in the fridge and wasn’t sure what to do with them. I didn’t want to let them go to waste, so I decided to stuff them with ground beef and rice. It turned out to be one of the best meals I had made in a long time—simple, hearty, and packed with flavor.

Now, this beef and rice stuffed zucchini recipe has become one of my go-to meals. It’s easy to prepare, filling, and a great way to use fresh zucchini. Plus, it’s a complete meal all in one dish, which makes cleanup even easier!

Servings	Total
4	40mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I first learned about stuffed zucchini from a family friend who made a version filled with tomatoes and cheese. I loved the idea but wanted something heartier, so I started experimenting with ground beef and rice. Over time, I found the perfect balance of flavors and now, it’s a regular dinner in my house.

Why Beef and Rice Stuffed Zucchini

Stuffed zucchini is a great meal because it’s simple, nutritious, and full of flavor. The zucchini becomes tender while baking, and the beef and rice filling is seasoned perfectly. It’s also a great way to sneak more vegetables into a meal without anyone complaining!

What Is Beef and Rice Stuffed Zucchini Made Of?

This dish is made with wholesome ingredients:

• Fresh zucchini
• Ground beef
• Cooked rice
• Onion and garlic
• Tomato sauce
• Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper

What to Have with Beef and Rice Stuffed Zucchini

Stuffed zucchini is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with:

• A fresh salad – A simple side salad with vinaigrette balances the meal.
• Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Steamed vegetables – Green beans or roasted carrots make a great pairing.

Is Beef and Rice Stuffed Zucchini Healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with protein from the beef, fiber from the rice, and vitamins from the zucchini. You can make it even healthier by using brown rice or ground turkey instead of beef.

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need:

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Cutting board and knife
• Spoon for scooping zucchini
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchini
• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
   • Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise.
   • Use a spoon to scoop out the center, leaving a ¼-inch border.
   • Place the zucchini halves in a baking dish.
3. Cook the Beef Mixture:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the ground beef and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
   • Stir in the diced onion and garlic. Cook for another 2–3 minutes.
   • Add the cooked rice, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let simmer for 3 minutes.
4. Stuff the Zucchini:
   • Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each zucchini half, pressing down gently to fill them completely.
   • Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top if using.
5. Bake:
   • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the tops are slightly golden.
6. Serve:
   • Let the stuffed zucchini cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips

• Use a melon baller to easily scoop out the zucchini.
• Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option.
• Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed zucchini, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.

3. How do I reheat stuffed zucchini?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Conclusion

Beef and rice stuffed zucchini is an easy, delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s full of flavor, packed with nutrients, and simple to prepare. Whether you’re making it for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a great way to enjoy zucchini in a new and delicious way. Try it out and enjoy!

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