![- 4 medium zucchinis - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes - Salt and black pepper to taste - Olive oil for drizzling - Fresh basil for garnish (optional) Gathering the right ingredients is key to making delicious cheese stuffed zucchini boats. Start with four medium zucchinis. They should be firm and fresh. Next, you’ll need one cup of ricotta cheese. This cheese gives a creamy base to your filling. One cup of shredded mozzarella cheese adds a gooey texture that melts beautifully. You’ll also need half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This cheese brings a sharp flavor that makes the dish shine. For some freshness, add one cup of halved cherry tomatoes. They add color and a burst of juiciness. A tablespoon of dried Italian herbs adds depth. Mix in two cloves of minced garlic for a punch of flavor. If you want some heat, sprinkle in half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Don’t forget salt and black pepper to taste. Lastly, use olive oil for drizzling, which adds richness. Fresh basil can be used as a garnish to brighten the dish. If you want to follow the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps the zucchinis cook evenly. Next, wash the zucchinis well. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Take a spoon and scoop out the center of each half. You want to create a boat shape. Don’t toss the scooped-out flesh; you will use it later in the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and the minced garlic. Then, mix in the dried Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Finally, add the chopped zucchini flesh you set aside. Stir gently until everything is well mixed. Now, generously fill each zucchini boat with the cheese mixture, pressing down lightly to pack it in. Arrange the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil over the top for added flavor. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of each stuffed zucchini. Bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You want the zucchinis to be tender and the cheese to be golden and bubbly. Once done, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes. Enjoy this flavorful dish as part of your meal! For the complete recipe, check [Full Recipe]. To keep zucchini from getting soggy, salt them first. After slicing, sprinkle salt inside the boats. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This draws out excess moisture. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel. You will have crispier zucchini. For a tasty cheese mixture, use fresh herbs. Basil and parsley brighten the flavors. Adding garlic enhances the taste, too. I like to mix in some red pepper flakes for a little heat. Always taste your mixture before filling the boats. Adjust salt and pepper as needed. Cheese stuffed zucchini boats pair well with a light salad. A simple arugula salad adds freshness and crunch. You can also serve them with crusty bread. This makes a great meal or side dish. For garnishes, fresh herbs are a must. Chopped parsley or basil look great on top. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a nice touch as well. You can even sprinkle some extra cheese for extra richness. For the full recipe, check out the Zesty Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Boats. {{image_2}} You can change the cheese in this recipe. Try goat cheese or feta. These cheeses add a tangy flavor. You can also mix in some cream cheese for a richer taste. Adding protein makes this dish heartier. Ground turkey or sausage works well. Cook the meat before mixing it with the cheese. This adds flavor and makes the meal more filling. If you want a vegan option, use dairy-free cheese. Many brands make great vegan cheese now. You can find them at most grocery stores. You can also add more veggies. Chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can boost nutrition. Just sauté them lightly before mixing. This keeps them tender and flavorful. These variations let you customize your zucchini boats. For the full recipe, check out the details above. To store leftover cheese stuffed zucchinis, first, let them cool. Place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. Wrap each stuffed zucchini in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When it's time to reheat, use an oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the zucchini on a baking sheet. Cover them with foil to keep them from drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warm. For a crisp top, remove the foil for the last five minutes. Enjoy your tasty leftovers! How do I make zucchini boats without cheese? You can swap cheese for cooked quinoa or lentils. Use your favorite spices to add flavor. Mix in veggies like bell peppers and onions for texture. This gives a tasty, cheesy feel without dairy. Can I prepare cheese stuffed zucchini boats ahead of time? Yes, you can prep them ahead. Stuff the zucchini boats and cover them in the fridge. Bake them when you’re ready to eat. This makes dinner quick and easy on busy nights. What's the ideal serving size for this recipe? One zucchini boat is a good serving size. Each boat is filling and packed with flavor. You can serve one or two boats per person, depending on your appetite. Are cheese stuffed zucchini boats healthy? Yes, they are a healthy choice! Zucchini is low in calories and high in fiber. The cheese provides protein and calcium. Plus, the tomatoes and herbs add vitamins and antioxidants. What is the calorie count per serving? Each cheese stuffed zucchini boat has about 150-200 calories. This may vary based on the cheese and toppings you use. You can check the Full Recipe for precise numbers. These cheese stuffed zucchini boats are a tasty and easy dish. You learned how to prepare them step-by-step, from scooping out the zucchini to packing in the flavorful filling. We explored tips to keep them from getting soggy and ways to serve them well. You can even try different cheeses or add protein, making this dish flexible. Enjoy making and sharing this recipe with friends and family. Cooking can be fun and rewarding!](https://stirredrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/c1f36112-6b1d-4a2a-835f-2e5a410c9a5f.webp)
Ready for a tasty dish that’s simple to make? These cheese stuffed zucchini boats pack flavor and satisfaction in every bite! With creamy cheeses and fresh veggies, this recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or a fun side dish. I’ll walk you through easy steps to prepare, cook, and enjoy this delightful meal. Let’s dive in and whip up something delicious!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Olive oil for drizzling
– Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making delicious cheese stuffed zucchini boats. Start with four medium zucchinis. They should be firm and fresh. Next, you’ll need one cup of ricotta cheese. This cheese gives a creamy base to your filling. One cup of shredded mozzarella cheese adds a gooey texture that melts beautifully.
You’ll also need half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This cheese brings a sharp flavor that makes the dish shine. For some freshness, add one cup of halved cherry tomatoes. They add color and a burst of juiciness.
A tablespoon of dried Italian herbs adds depth. Mix in two cloves of minced garlic for a punch of flavor. If you want some heat, sprinkle in half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Don’t forget salt and black pepper to taste.
Lastly, use olive oil for drizzling, which adds richness. Fresh basil can be used as a garnish to brighten the dish. If you want to follow the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps the zucchinis cook evenly. Next, wash the zucchinis well. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Take a spoon and scoop out the center of each half. You want to create a boat shape. Don’t toss the scooped-out flesh; you will use it later in the filling.
Filling the Zucchini Boats
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and the minced garlic. Then, mix in the dried Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Finally, add the chopped zucchini flesh you set aside. Stir gently until everything is well mixed. Now, generously fill each zucchini boat with the cheese mixture, pressing down lightly to pack it in.
Baking Instructions
Arrange the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil over the top for added flavor. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of each stuffed zucchini. Bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You want the zucchinis to be tender and the cheese to be golden and bubbly. Once done, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes. Enjoy this flavorful dish as part of your meal! For the complete recipe, check [Full Recipe].
Tips & Tricks
Helpful Cooking Tips
To keep zucchini from getting soggy, salt them first. After slicing, sprinkle salt inside the boats. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This draws out excess moisture. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel. You will have crispier zucchini.
For a tasty cheese mixture, use fresh herbs. Basil and parsley brighten the flavors. Adding garlic enhances the taste, too. I like to mix in some red pepper flakes for a little heat. Always taste your mixture before filling the boats. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Cheese stuffed zucchini boats pair well with a light salad. A simple arugula salad adds freshness and crunch. You can also serve them with crusty bread. This makes a great meal or side dish.
For garnishes, fresh herbs are a must. Chopped parsley or basil look great on top. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a nice touch as well. You can even sprinkle some extra cheese for extra richness.
For the full recipe, check out the Zesty Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Boats.
Variations
Alternate Fillings
You can change the cheese in this recipe. Try goat cheese or feta. These cheeses add a tangy flavor. You can also mix in some cream cheese for a richer taste.
Adding protein makes this dish heartier. Ground turkey or sausage works well. Cook the meat before mixing it with the cheese. This adds flavor and makes the meal more filling.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
If you want a vegan option, use dairy-free cheese. Many brands make great vegan cheese now. You can find them at most grocery stores.
You can also add more veggies. Chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can boost nutrition. Just sauté them lightly before mixing. This keeps them tender and flavorful. These variations let you customize your zucchini boats. For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
To store leftover cheese stuffed zucchinis, first, let them cool. Place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. Wrap each stuffed zucchini in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to reheat, use an oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the zucchini on a baking sheet. Cover them with foil to keep them from drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warm. For a crisp top, remove the foil for the last five minutes. Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
FAQs
Common Questions
How do I make zucchini boats without cheese?
You can swap cheese for cooked quinoa or lentils. Use your favorite spices to add flavor. Mix in veggies like bell peppers and onions for texture. This gives a tasty, cheesy feel without dairy.
Can I prepare cheese stuffed zucchini boats ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep them ahead. Stuff the zucchini boats and cover them in the fridge. Bake them when you’re ready to eat. This makes dinner quick and easy on busy nights.
What’s the ideal serving size for this recipe?
One zucchini boat is a good serving size. Each boat is filling and packed with flavor. You can serve one or two boats per person, depending on your appetite.
Nutritional Considerations
Are cheese stuffed zucchini boats healthy?
Yes, they are a healthy choice! Zucchini is low in calories and high in fiber. The cheese provides protein and calcium. Plus, the tomatoes and herbs add vitamins and antioxidants.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each cheese stuffed zucchini boat has about 150-200 calories. This may vary based on the cheese and toppings you use. You can check the Full Recipe for precise numbers.
These cheese stuffed zucchini boats are a tasty and easy dish. You learned how to prepare them step-by-step, from scooping out the zucchini to packing in the flavorful filling. We explored tips to keep them from getting soggy and ways to serve them well. You can even try different cheeses or add protein, making this dish flexible.
Enjoy making and sharing this recipe with friends and family. Cooking can be fun and rewarding!
![- 4 medium zucchinis - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes - Salt and black pepper to taste - Olive oil for drizzling - Fresh basil for garnish (optional) Gathering the right ingredients is key to making delicious cheese stuffed zucchini boats. Start with four medium zucchinis. They should be firm and fresh. Next, you’ll need one cup of ricotta cheese. This cheese gives a creamy base to your filling. One cup of shredded mozzarella cheese adds a gooey texture that melts beautifully. You’ll also need half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This cheese brings a sharp flavor that makes the dish shine. For some freshness, add one cup of halved cherry tomatoes. They add color and a burst of juiciness. A tablespoon of dried Italian herbs adds depth. Mix in two cloves of minced garlic for a punch of flavor. If you want some heat, sprinkle in half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Don’t forget salt and black pepper to taste. Lastly, use olive oil for drizzling, which adds richness. Fresh basil can be used as a garnish to brighten the dish. If you want to follow the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps the zucchinis cook evenly. Next, wash the zucchinis well. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Take a spoon and scoop out the center of each half. You want to create a boat shape. Don’t toss the scooped-out flesh; you will use it later in the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and the minced garlic. Then, mix in the dried Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Finally, add the chopped zucchini flesh you set aside. Stir gently until everything is well mixed. Now, generously fill each zucchini boat with the cheese mixture, pressing down lightly to pack it in. Arrange the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil over the top for added flavor. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of each stuffed zucchini. Bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You want the zucchinis to be tender and the cheese to be golden and bubbly. Once done, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes. Enjoy this flavorful dish as part of your meal! For the complete recipe, check [Full Recipe]. To keep zucchini from getting soggy, salt them first. After slicing, sprinkle salt inside the boats. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This draws out excess moisture. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel. You will have crispier zucchini. For a tasty cheese mixture, use fresh herbs. Basil and parsley brighten the flavors. Adding garlic enhances the taste, too. I like to mix in some red pepper flakes for a little heat. Always taste your mixture before filling the boats. Adjust salt and pepper as needed. Cheese stuffed zucchini boats pair well with a light salad. A simple arugula salad adds freshness and crunch. You can also serve them with crusty bread. This makes a great meal or side dish. For garnishes, fresh herbs are a must. Chopped parsley or basil look great on top. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a nice touch as well. You can even sprinkle some extra cheese for extra richness. For the full recipe, check out the Zesty Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Boats. {{image_2}} You can change the cheese in this recipe. Try goat cheese or feta. These cheeses add a tangy flavor. You can also mix in some cream cheese for a richer taste. Adding protein makes this dish heartier. Ground turkey or sausage works well. Cook the meat before mixing it with the cheese. This adds flavor and makes the meal more filling. If you want a vegan option, use dairy-free cheese. Many brands make great vegan cheese now. You can find them at most grocery stores. You can also add more veggies. Chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can boost nutrition. Just sauté them lightly before mixing. This keeps them tender and flavorful. These variations let you customize your zucchini boats. For the full recipe, check out the details above. To store leftover cheese stuffed zucchinis, first, let them cool. Place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. Wrap each stuffed zucchini in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When it's time to reheat, use an oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the zucchini on a baking sheet. Cover them with foil to keep them from drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warm. For a crisp top, remove the foil for the last five minutes. Enjoy your tasty leftovers! How do I make zucchini boats without cheese? You can swap cheese for cooked quinoa or lentils. Use your favorite spices to add flavor. Mix in veggies like bell peppers and onions for texture. This gives a tasty, cheesy feel without dairy. Can I prepare cheese stuffed zucchini boats ahead of time? Yes, you can prep them ahead. Stuff the zucchini boats and cover them in the fridge. Bake them when you’re ready to eat. This makes dinner quick and easy on busy nights. What's the ideal serving size for this recipe? One zucchini boat is a good serving size. Each boat is filling and packed with flavor. You can serve one or two boats per person, depending on your appetite. Are cheese stuffed zucchini boats healthy? Yes, they are a healthy choice! Zucchini is low in calories and high in fiber. The cheese provides protein and calcium. Plus, the tomatoes and herbs add vitamins and antioxidants. What is the calorie count per serving? Each cheese stuffed zucchini boat has about 150-200 calories. This may vary based on the cheese and toppings you use. You can check the Full Recipe for precise numbers. These cheese stuffed zucchini boats are a tasty and easy dish. You learned how to prepare them step-by-step, from scooping out the zucchini to packing in the flavorful filling. We explored tips to keep them from getting soggy and ways to serve them well. You can even try different cheeses or add protein, making this dish flexible. Enjoy making and sharing this recipe with friends and family. Cooking can be fun and rewarding!](https://stirredrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/c1f36112-6b1d-4a2a-835f-2e5a410c9a5f-300x300.webp)