How to Make Tasty Mushroom and Ricotta Stuffed Zucchini Boats in 30 Minutes

Are you ready to whip up a delicious and healthy meal that your family will love? I’m excited to share my recipe for Mushroom and Ricotta Stuffed Zucchini Boats! This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for the taste buds. Perfect for those busy weeknights, these zucchini boats are a fantastic option for quick family dinners. Plus, they come together in just 30 minutes, making them one of my favorite 30-minute meals!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Loaded with fresh ingredients, making it a healthy choice.
• Vegetarian-friendly, yet hearty enough to satisfy everyone.
• Versatile – you can customize the filling with your favorite ingredients.
• Great for meal prep or leftovers!

Ingredients

To make these delightful Zucchini Boats, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise
• 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
• 1 cup diced mushrooms
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, as desired

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the cooking process! Follow these simple steps to create your Zucchini Boat Recipes:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the diced mushrooms and cook until they are soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the halved zucchini on a baking sheet, cut side up. Spoon the mushroom and ricotta mixture generously into each zucchini half.
6. Top with extra mozzarella cheese for that gooey, cheesy goodness!
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Mushroom and Ricotta Stuffed Zucchini Boats turn out perfectly:

• Feel free to experiment with different Mushroom Varieties! Cremini or shiitake mushrooms can add a unique flavor.
• If you want to add some protein, consider mixing in cooked ground turkey or chicken.
• For a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes to the filling.
• Make sure not to overcook the zucchini; you want them tender but still holding their shape.
• These zucchini boats can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them!

How to Serve

These stuffed zucchini boats are perfect as a light dinner on their own, but you can also serve them with a side salad or some crusty bread for a more filling meal. They pair wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea. If you’re looking for more ideas, check out my Beef and Mushroom Stir Fry or Ground Beef Stroganoff for hearty dinner options!

Make Ahead and Storage

If you’re like me and love to meal prep, you’ll be thrilled to know that these zucchini boats can be made ahead of time! Just prepare the filling and stuff the zucchini, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply pop them in the oven as directed.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. These Zucchini Boats Recipes are not only delicious but also a great way to use up any extra vegetables you have on hand!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab those zucchinis and let’s get cooking! I can’t wait for you to try these Mushroom and Ricotta Stuffed Zucchini Boats and see how they become a staple in your home. Happy cooking!