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Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef

Emily Carter
A savory vegan twist on zucchini boats, filled with plant-based ground beef, veggies, and spices. Low-carb, high-flavor goodness!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium zucchinis
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 200 g vegan ground beef soy-based or seitan, your choice
  • ½ onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon basil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup nutritional yeast for that cheesy, plant-based vibe
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, unless you're feeling rebellious.
  • Slice zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the middle with a spoon, leaving a boat-shaped shell.
  • Drizzle zucchini halves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place them on the baking sheet.
  • In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Don't burn it, okay?
  • Add vegan ground beef to the pan and cook for 5 minutes, breaking it apart with your spoon.
  • Stir in tomato sauce, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
  • Spoon the vegan beef mixture into zucchini boats. Don’t skimp, but also don’t overstuff.
  • Sprinkle nutritional yeast over the top for a cheesy finish.
  • Bake in the oven for 20 minutes, until zucchini is tender but not mushy.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot like the plant-based boss you are.

Notes

Nutritional Values (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 180
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 16g

Vitamins and Minerals (Per Serving)

  • Vitamin A: 20%
  • Vitamin C: 30%
  • Iron: 15%
  • Folate: 10%
  • Magnesium: 12%

Additional Notes/Tips to Enhance the Flavor

  • Add some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
  • Top with avocado slices or vegan sour cream for creaminess.
  • If you have leftovers (ha, good luck), they’re perfect for lunch the next day.
  • Want a deeper flavor? Roast the zucchinis before stuffing them. It’s worth it.
  • Try adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the filling for more texture and taste.

You’ve officially turned zucchinis into a dinner party showstopper. Light, low-carb, and full of sass—enjoy!