Print

Easy Savory Stuffed Zucchini Boats with Ground Turkey and Feta

stuffed zucchini boats - featured image

A simple, comforting recipe featuring roasted zucchini boats stuffed with savory ground turkey and tangy feta cheese, perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise and scooped out
  • 1 pound lean ground turkey
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Wash and halve 4 medium zucchinis lengthwise. Use a spoon or small melon baller to scoop out the seeds and some flesh, leaving about a ¼-inch thick shell. Set the scooped flesh aside.
  3. Lightly brush the zucchini boats with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Place them cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for about 10 minutes until just tender but still holding shape.
  4. While zucchini roasts, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  5. Add minced garlic and chopped zucchini flesh to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
  6. Add ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
  7. Stir in tomato paste, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes to combine flavors.
  8. Remove skillet from heat and let the mixture cool for a minute. Then fold in crumbled feta, chopped parsley or dill, and lemon zest.
  9. Turn the roasted zucchini boats cut-side up on the baking dish. Spoon the filling evenly into each boat, pressing gently to pack it.
  10. Return stuffed boats to the oven and bake for another 15-18 minutes until tops are lightly golden and bubbling, and zucchini is tender.
  11. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Roasting zucchini before stuffing prevents sogginess and keeps the shape intact. Add a splash of water or broth if the filling looks dry while cooking. For extra flavor, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top before baking. Keep knives sharp for easier and safer scooping.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini boats, stuffed zucchini, ground turkey recipe, feta cheese, easy dinner, healthy meal, weeknight dinner, low-carb, gluten-free