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Savory Zucchini Boat Taco Bake Recipe with Ground Turkey and Cheese Easy

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A quick and easy zucchini boat taco bake featuring ground turkey, seasoned filling, and a cheesy topping. Perfect for busy weeknights and a healthy twist on traditional tacos.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise and scooped
  • 1 pound ground turkey, lean
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of half a lime
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving about a ¼-inch thick shell. Save the scooped flesh in a bowl. Place the hollowed boats cut side up in a baking dish. Lightly brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 10 minutes to soften.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up and cooking until browned, about 6–8 minutes.
  5. Stir in taco seasoning and tomato paste until combined. Add reserved zucchini flesh and black beans if using. Cook for 3–4 minutes more, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Remove zucchini shells from oven and spoon the turkey mixture evenly into each boat.
  7. Top each filled boat generously with the shredded cheese blend.
  8. Return the dish to the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  9. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the boats and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

Pre-baking the zucchini shells helps prevent sogginess. Drain any excess liquid released during baking before adding cheese. Lime juice added at the end brightens the flavors. Filling can be prepared a day ahead for convenience. Substitute ground turkey with chicken, beef, or plant-based options. Cheese can be swapped for dairy-free alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini boats, taco bake, ground turkey, easy dinner, healthy tacos, cheesy zucchini, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/savory-zucchini-boat-taco-bake-recipe-with-ground-turkey-and-cheese-easy/