Taco Zucchini Boats
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
20 mins
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Cook Time
35 mins
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Total Time
55 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Taco Zucchini Boats
Description
This dish begins by hollowing out medium zucchinis to create edible boats. Ground beef is browned with onions and garlic before adding diced tomatoes, green chilies, and taco seasoning to build a thick, spiced filling. Fresh cilantro adds brightness to the mixture.
The beef filling is spooned into the zucchini shells, which are then baked at 400°F until tender, allowing the zucchini to soften while holding its shape. A final sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese melts on top, adding richness and a mild tangy flavor.
Taco Zucchini Boats work well as a main dish that balances vegetables and protein without the carbohydrates of traditional taco shells. They can be served on their own or with sides like rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 4 zucchini medium
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion diced, small
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (10-ounce) can green chilies
- 1 (1.25-ounce) package taco seasoning
- 3 tablespoons cilantro fresh, chopped leaves
- salt to taste, Kosher salt and freshly ground
- black pepper to taste, Kosher salt and freshly ground
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded sharp
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly oil a 9 x 13 baking dish or coat with nonstick spray.
- Cut each zucchini in half horizontally, then carefully scoop out the center of the zucchini, reserving for another use, leaving about 1/2-inch of zucchini on the skin.
- Heat canola oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes, making sure to crumble the beef as it cooks; drain excess fat.
- Add onion, and cook, stirring frequently, until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in diced tomatoes & green chilies and taco seasoning until thickened and flavors have blended, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in cilantro.
- Place zucchini in a single layer, skin-side down, onto the prepared baking dish; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Add beef mixture to each zucchini.
- Place into oven and bake until the zucchini is tender, about 20-25 minutes. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese during the last 5 minutes of cooking time.
- Serve immediately.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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