👉StuffedZucchini Casserole – Recipes on a Budget

Stuffed Zucchini Casserole Recipe 🍽️🌿

This Stuffed Zucchini Casserole is a perfect blend of healthy and hearty, making it an ideal dish for weeknight dinners or when you want something satisfying yet nutritious. The tender zucchini halves are filled with seasoned ground turkey, topped with marinara sauce, and finished with a blanket of melted mozzarella cheese—creating a casserole that’s bursting with flavor and wholesome goodness.

🛒 Ingredients

4 medium zucchinis
(Fresh and firm zucchinis make the perfect base for stuffing.)
1 pound ground turkey
(Lean protein that’s flavorful and lower in fat.)
1/2 cup diced onion
(Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.)
2 cloves garlic, minced
(For a punch of aromatic goodness.)
1 cup marinara sauce
(Rich and tangy sauce to complement the savory filling.)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
(Melts beautifully, giving that irresistible cheesy top.)
Salt and pepper, to taste
(Season to bring out all the flavors.)

👩‍🍳 Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchinis

Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise, creating 8 pieces.
Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh to create a hollow center, perfect for holding the filling.

Step 3: Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, brown the ground turkey over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the turkey. Cook until the onion is soft and the turkey is no longer pink.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Stuff the Zucchinis

Spoon the turkey mixture into each hollowed zucchini half, filling them evenly.
Arrange the stuffed zucchinis in a large baking dish.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed zucchinis, making sure to cover each one generously.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each zucchini.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with foil to keep the zucchini from drying out.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Pair it with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

🍴 Helpful Tips

Choose zucchinis that are firm and similar in size for even baking.
If you want a lower-carb version, consider using ground chicken instead of turkey or opt for a homemade marinara sauce with no added sugar.
Add more veggies! You can mix in finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach into the turkey filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
Experiment with cheese: For a sharper taste, swap half of the mozzarella with shredded Parmesan.
Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat.

🧊 Storage & Reheating Tips

Refrigerator: Store leftover stuffed zucchinis in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: To freeze, place the stuffed zucchinis in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave for 2-3 minutes. If reheating from frozen, allow extra time.

❓ 20 Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Yes! Ground beef, chicken, or even sausage can be used.

Q2: What’s a good vegetarian substitute for the meat?
Use cooked quinoa, lentils, or black beans for a vegetarian filling.

Q3: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q4: How do I prevent the zucchini from getting soggy?
Sprinkle the hollowed zucchini with a bit of salt and let them sit for 15 minutes before filling. This helps draw out excess moisture.

Q5: Can I add rice to the filling?
Yes, adding cooked rice or cauliflower rice is a great way to make the dish heartier.

Q6: What if my zucchinis are too small?
Use larger zucchinis or adjust the filling ratio accordingly. You can also cut a few extra zucchinis.

Q7: Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Yes, yellow squash works as a great substitute and has a similar texture.

Q8: What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
Try using tomato sauce mixed with Italian seasonings, or pasta sauce as a replacement.

Q9: How can I make it creamier?
Mix in a little cream cheese or ricotta to the filling before stuffing.

Q10: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, as long as you use a low-carb marinara sauce, it’s perfect for a keto diet.

Q11: Can I add herbs for extra flavor?
Absolutely! Add basil, oregano, or Italian seasoning to the filling.

Q12: Can I cook this on the stovetop?
Yes, cook the stuffed zucchinis in a covered skillet over low heat until the zucchinis are tender.

Q13: What kind of cheese works best?
Mozzarella is classic, but you can use cheddar, provolone, or a cheese blend.

Q14: Can I grill the zucchinis instead?
Yes, grill the stuffed zucchinis over medium heat until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted.

Q15: What side dishes go well with this casserole?
Serve with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.

Q16: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger baking dish and adjust the filling proportions as needed.

Q17: Can I omit the cheese?
Yes, but it won’t have the same gooey texture on top.

Q18: What’s the best way to hollow out the zucchinis?
Use a melon baller or small spoon to scoop out the centers.

Q19: Can I add breadcrumbs?
Yes, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan on top before baking for a crunchy finish.

Q20: Can I use a different sauce?
Try alfredo, pesto, or spicy arrabbiata sauce for a different flavor profile.