Ground Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Name: Ground Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchini; 1 pound ground turkey; 1 cup diced bell pepper; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Olive oil for drizzling; Fresh basil for garnishing (optional)

Highlighted under: Ready-to-Go Meals

I absolutely love making Ground Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Boats for a healthy yet satisfying meal. The combination of seasoned ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese creates a delightful flavor explosion that keeps our dinner table lively. Zucchini is my go-to veggie for a low-carb option, and this recipe has become a family favorite. It's easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep for lunchboxes. Trust me, you won't miss the carbs!

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:28:47.711Z

During one of our dinner brainstorming sessions, I wanted to create a dish that was both healthy and satisfying. That's when I stumbled upon zucchini as a versatile vessel for stuffing. The first time I made these Ground Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Boats, I was amazed at how well the turkey soaked up the spices and complemented the zucchini's natural sweetness. I realized that you could play around with flavors, making it a dish that's never boring.

One tip I learned along the way is to partially scoop out the zucchini's flesh, which creates more space for the stuffing without becoming too watery. This ensures each boat holds its shape and the flavors meld perfectly. Every time I serve these, I love seeing the smiles they bring to my family!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and flavorful filling that satisfies cravings
Low-carb alternative to traditional stuffed dishes
Easily customizable with your favorite seasonings and toppings

Choosing the Right Zucchini

When selecting zucchini for this recipe, opt for medium-sized ones. They usually have the perfect balance of tenderness and firmness, which prevents them from becoming too mushy during baking. Look for vibrant green skin without blemishes or soft spots. If you find larger zucchinis, you might want to use just one half per serving, as they can have more watery flesh and might take longer to cook through.

Make sure to wash the zucchinis well before cutting them in half. Any dirt or residue on the skin can affect the overall taste of your dish. If you happen to have extra zucchini from your garden or the grocery store, you can easily double this recipe and have leftovers for the week. Just ensure to adjust the filling quantities accordingly to maintain a good zucchini-to-filling ratio.

Customizing Your Filling

The filling for these zucchini boats can be tailored to match your favorite flavors. Consider swapping ground turkey for lean ground beef, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the choice of protein. Additionally, if you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the mix as you sauté the vegetables.

Your choice of marinara sauce can also elevate the dish. Try using a roasted garlic marinara or adding a splash of red wine for added depth. If you enjoy a cheesy filling, consider folding in some ricotta or parmesan cheese before spooning it into the zucchini. This not only enhances the creaminess but also adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the mozzarella topping.

Storage and Reheating

These stuffed zucchini boats make great leftovers! To store, simply place any uneaten boats in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. This method will keep the zucchini from becoming too soggy, which can happen in the microwave.

If you want to prepare these ahead of time, you can assemble the stuffed zucchini without baking them. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to a day. When you're ready to cook, simply bake from chilled, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure everything gets heated thoroughly and the cheese is perfectly melted.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious stuffed zucchini boats:

Ingredients

4 medium zucchini
1 pound ground turkey
1 cup diced bell pepper
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Olive oil for drizzling
Fresh basil for garnishing (optional)

After gathering your ingredients, you are all set to prepare this delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Ground Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Boats:

Prepare Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the center flesh, leaving about 1/4-inch border. Place them on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, then set aside.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened. Then add garlic, ground turkey, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the turkey is browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.

Fill Zucchini

Stir in the marinara sauce with the cooked turkey mixture. Spoon the filling into the hollowed-out zucchini boats, packing it in well. Top each with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden. Remove and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Garnish with fresh basil before serving for an added touch of flavor!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the filling or swap the ground turkey with chicken or beef for variation.

Serving Suggestions

These Ground Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Boats can be served as a standalone dish, but they also pair wonderfully with a side salad for a complete meal. A simple arugula or spinach salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors of the zucchini without overpowering them. Alternatively, serve them alongside whole grain rice or quinoa for a heartier combination.

For a gathering or family dinner, consider making a platter of these stuffed zucchini boats in various flavor profiles. You can prepare some with marinara and mozzarella, others with a spicy salsa topping, and even ones featuring pesto. This way, everyone can enjoy their favorite flavors while sharing a lovely, health-conscious meal.

Dietary Considerations

If you're adhering to a gluten-free diet, be sure to select a gluten-free marinara sauce. Most are naturally gluten-free, but it's always wise to check the label to avoid any cross-contamination. Additionally, replacing the mozzarella cheese with a dairy-free alternative can accommodate lactose intolerant guests while preserving the dish's creamy texture.

For those looking to boost the nutritional value, consider mixing in some cooked quinoa or brown rice into the turkey filling. This adds protein and fiber. Just be mindful to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as these ingredients can absorb flavors differently compared to the turkey alone.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the zucchini and filling a day in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and bake when ready to eat.

→ What other toppings can I use?

You can top these with parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, or even a dollop of sour cream.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a great option for gluten-sensitive individuals.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.