These healthy ground turkey taco stuffed zucchini boats are a fun twist on traditional tacos. They’re packed with seasoned turkey, veggies, and topped with cheese! Yum!
Let’s be real—who wouldn’t love a taco in a boat? I serve these with some salsa on the side. It’s a great way to eat your veggies and still feel like you’re enjoying a treat!
Making these zucchini boats is super easy. Just scoop, fill, and bake! I love how quick they are to prepare, making dinner feel like a breeze on busy nights.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: These serve as the perfect boat for your filling. If zucchinis are unavailable, consider using yellow squash. They work similarly but may have a slightly different flavor.
Ground Turkey: It’s lean and healthy! If you’re not a fan of turkey, you could substitute with ground chicken or even ground beef. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they might vary.
Taco Seasoning: You can use store-bought taco seasoning for convenience, but making your own with spices gives you more control over the flavor. Adjust the spices to your liking, especially if you prefer more heat.
Cheese: I love a Mexican blend for this recipe, but feel free to use any cheese you enjoy. Cheddar or pepper jack would work nicely, too. For a lighter option, you could skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
How Do You Make Sure Your Zucchini Boats Stay Firm?
One common challenge with zucchini boats is keeping them from turning soggy. Here are some tips to retain their firmness:
- Try to scoop out enough flesh to create space but keep some flesh for added moisture and flavor in the filling.
- Pre-bake the zucchini halves for about 5-10 minutes before adding the filling. This helps them firm up.
- Make sure your filling isn’t too wet. Drain excess liquid from the canned tomatoes and avoid overcooking the turkey mixture, which can release moisture.
- Bake them just until the cheese melts and has some color, to prevent overcooking.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly firm zucchini boats every time!
Healthy Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Boats:
- 4 medium zucchinis
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade: 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp cayenne, 1/2 tsp oregano, salt and pepper to taste)
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
- 2 green onions, sliced thin (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes for cooking. So, in less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, healthy meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Zucchini:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, wash and trim the zucchinis. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and flesh from each half with a spoon to create little boats. Don’t discard the scooped-out flesh just yet; you’ll need it for the filling!
2. Making the Filling:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until they turn translucent and fragrant, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook it until the turkey is nicely browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Combining Ingredients:
Now, stir in the reserved chopped zucchini flesh, taco seasoning, and drained diced tomatoes. Cook everything together for another 4-5 minutes until well-mixed and heated through. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.
4. Stuffing the Zucchini Boats:
Place your hollowed-out zucchini halves in a greased baking dish. Stuff each “boat” generously with the turkey mixture, ensuring they are filled to the brim! Don’t be shy—this filling is delicious!
5. Adding Cheese and Baking:
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the tops of all the stuffed zucchini boats. Then, pop your dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is starting to turn golden brown.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once they are out of the oven, let them sit for a couple of minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch! Serve warm, and enjoy with salsa, sour cream, or avocado on the side if you like.
Dig in and enjoy your healthy ground turkey taco stuffed zucchini boats! They are sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Healthy Ground Turkey Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! If ground turkey isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with ground chicken, lean beef, or even ground pork. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as they may vary slightly based on the type of meat you use.
Can I Make These Boats in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini boats and filling ahead of time. Just assemble them and store them in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to cook, simply sprinkle on the cheese and bake them as directed!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover stuffed zucchini boats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can easily be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make Them Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can swap the ground turkey for a mix of black beans, cooked quinoa, or lentils to make a delicious vegetarian version. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings to ensure they’re flavorful!
