These crunchy zucchini boats are filled with tasty ground turkey and spices, making them a fun and healthy twist on tacos! They are simple to make and perfect for a cozy dinner.
I love making these zucchini boats when I want something light but satisfying. Plus, it’s like eating your tacos in a cute little boat! 🛳️ Perfect for impressing friends or just treating yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Zucchini boats are the star here! If you can’t find zucchini, you might try yellow squash or even bell peppers, but zucchini holds up nicely when baked.
Ground Turkey: Ground turkey is lean and works well in this dish. You could substitute with ground chicken, lean beef, or a plant-based meat alternative for a different flavor.
Taco Seasoning: If you’re out of taco seasoning, mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder for a quick homemade version. This gives you great control over the flavor!
Canned Diced Tomatoes: You can swap these for fresh diced tomatoes or even salsa for an extra kick. I love using fresh tomatoes when they are in season!
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a dairy-free cheese can work beautifully as well. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!
How Do I Make Sure the Zucchini Boats Are Cooked Just Right?
Getting the zucchini cooked perfectly is key! You want them tender but not mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by roasting the zucchini boats for about 10 minutes. This gives them a head start.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time when you add the filling. If your ovens tends to run hot, check them a couple of minutes early.
- Feel free to test a boat with a fork; they should be easy to pierce but still hold their shape.
By following these simple tips, you’ll get perfectly soft yet sturdy zucchini boats each time!
Easy Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) taco seasoning or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, followed by about 30 minutes of cooking time. So, you’re looking at a total of around 45 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for the zucchini boats.
2. Prepare the Zucchinis:
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and slice them in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out the center flesh carefully, leaving about a 1/4 inch border to create your boat shape. Don’t throw away the scooped flesh—chop it up and set it aside for later!
3. Bake the Zucchini Boats:
Arrange the zucchini boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Drizzle them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle a bit of salt over the top. Pop them in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes to soften.
4. Cook the Filling:
While the zucchini is baking, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Then, add the ground turkey and cook it through, breaking it apart with a spoon, for about 6-8 minutes until browned.
5. Make It Tasty:
Stir in the reserved chopped zucchini flesh, taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, black beans (if you’re using them), and corn. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until everything is warmed through and nicely mixed. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking!
6. Stuff the Zucchini Boats:
Once the zucchini boats are done baking, carefully remove them from the oven. Now it’s time to fill them! Spoon the turkey taco mixture evenly into each zucchini boat, packing it in well.
7. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top of each stuffed boat. They’re going to be delicious!
8. Final Bake:
Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Yum!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro over the top for a burst of flavor. Let the boats cool for just a moment, then serve them with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, if you like. Enjoy your meal!
This recipe makes about 4 servings and is a great low-carb, flavorful dinner option that’s sure to please anyone around the table!
FAQ for Easy Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Different Meat Instead of Ground Turkey?
Absolutely! You can swap out ground turkey for ground chicken, lean beef, or even a plant-based meat substitute. Adjust the cooking time slightly based on the meat used, ensuring it’s fully cooked through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed zucchini boats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make These Zucchini Boats Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and fill the zucchini boats just before baking. Alternatively, you can assemble everything and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake for a quick dinner!
What Can I Serve With Zucchini Boats?
These zucchini boats are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of rice, a fresh salad, or tortilla chips with salsa for a more complete meal. Enjoy!
