Description
This recipe provides instructions for making Stuffed Zucchini Boats, featuring zucchini halves filled with a savory mixture of Italian sausage, onion, garlic, marinara sauce, and topped with mozzarella cheese, then baked until tender and golden.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 pound mild Italian sausage casings removed
- 1/2 cup onion finely diced
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Coat a large rectangular baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, then trim off the stem ends. Use a spoon to carefully scoop the flesh out of the zucchinis.
- Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, salt and pepper over the zucchini shells. Arrange the zucchini in the baking dish.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium high heat. Add the sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spatula.
- Add the onion and cook for an additional 4 minutes or until onion is softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Season the sausage and vegetable mixture with salt and pepper.
- Pour the marinara sauce into the pan and bring to a simmer; cook for 5 minutes.
- Spoon the meat mixture evenly into the zucchini shells, then top with the shredded cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until zucchini is tender and cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Sprinkle with parsley, then serve.
Notes
- The recipe uses mild Italian sausage; you can adjust the spiciness by choosing hot Italian sausage if preferred.
- Ensure the zucchini is scooped carefully to create a sturdy ‘boat’ for the filling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American