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Dinner

Flavorful Stuffed Zucchini Boats

These hearty zucchini boats are packed with a savory sausage filling and topped with perfectly melted cheese.

By Daily Recipes Book· 🌍 American· July 23, 2026
Flavorful Stuffed Zucchini Boats
dailyrecipesbook.com
Prep
15 minutes
Cook
25 minutes
Total
40 minutes
Serves
4

If you are looking for a dinner that feels special but stays on the lighter side, these stuffed zucchini boats are perfect. They are filled with savory sausage, fire roasted tomatoes, and a blend of cheeses that will make even the biggest veggie skeptics excited for dinner.

I love this recipe because it is much quicker than making a traditional lasagna. My biggest tip for success is to stick to medium sized zucchini and make sure to scoop them out thoroughly so they stay nice and firm while baking.

Ingredients

  • 4 medium zucchini
  • 12 ounces sausage of your choice, ground
  • 1 cup crushed fire roasted tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup Italian seasoned panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

  2. 2

    Wash the zucchini and trim only the stem ends. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise.

  3. 3

    Use a spoon to scoop out the center of each zucchini half, leaving a shell about one quarter inch thick.

  4. 4

    In a skillet over medium heat, cook your chosen sausage until browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

  5. 5

    Stir the fire roasted tomatoes, minced garlic, oregano, fennel seeds, salt, and pepper into the skillet with the sausage.

  6. 6

    Place the hollowed zucchini shells on a large baking sheet. Spoon the sausage mixture evenly into each shell.

  7. 7

    Top each boat with the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, then sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the top.

  8. 8

    Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

  9. 9

    Let the boats rest for a few minutes before serving, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

💡 Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a 400 degree oven until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option. For the best texture, wait to add the breadcrumbs until just before you bake them.

#Dinner#Healthy#Vegetarian#Gluten Free

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