Description
Zucchini Taco Boats are a delicious low-carb twist on taco night. Fresh zucchini halves are hollowed out and filled with seasoned ground beef, salsa, and melted cheese, then baked until tender. This healthy, family-friendly dinner is packed with classic taco flavors and perfect for a nutritious meal any night of the week.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade)
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Diced avocado
- Jalapeño slices
- Green onions
- Diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the zucchini boats.
- Prepare Zucchini: Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the center flesh, leaving about a ¼-inch thick shell to hold the filling. Brush the zucchini halves with olive oil and arrange them in a baking dish.
- Cook Ground Beef and Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Season and Simmer: Add the taco seasoning, water, and salsa to the skillet. Stir to combine and simmer the mixture for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Fill Zucchini Boats: Spoon the taco beef mixture evenly into each prepared zucchini boat, dividing the filling among them.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded Mexican cheese blend generously over the filled zucchini halves.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped cilantro and any optional taco toppings like sour cream, diced avocado, jalapeño slices, green onions, or diced tomatoes. Serve warm.
Notes
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner substitute for ground beef.
- Avoid overbaking to prevent the zucchini from becoming too soft or mushy.
- These zucchini boats make great meal prep options and reheat well for quick lunches or dinners.
- Pair with Mexican rice or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
