Cheesy Sausage-Stuffed Zucchini Boats

I Can’t Quit Moaning Zucchini! 🥒

Preparation Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8

Description:

Are you ready to create a dish that will have everyone at the table moaning in delight? Look no further than this incredible stuffed zucchini recipe! With a tantalizing blend of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, need a quick weeknight dinner option, or simply craving something delicious, these stuffed zucchinis are the perfect choice. Get ready to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds with this mouthwatering creation!

Ingredients:

• 6 large zucchinis
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 package cream cheese
• 4 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 24 ounces marinara sauce
• Optional: 1 pound crumbled sausage

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Zucchinis:

   • Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
   • Do not trim the top or bottom of the zucchinis.
   • Place the whole zucchinis in the water and let simmer for approximately 5 minutes, just until they soften. Adjust time for smaller zucchinis.
   • Remove the zucchinis and let them cool.
   • Once cooled, cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out a cavity, leaving a thick wall for support.

2. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion with olive oil until translucent.
   • If using, add the crumbled sausage and continue sautéing until fully cooked. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.

3. Make the Filling Mixture:

   • In a food processor, combine the cooked sausage mixture, scooped zucchini insides, and cream cheese.
   • Pulse the mixture until it’s well combined, but be careful not to over-process it.

4. Assemble and Bake:

   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Drizzle some olive oil in the bottom of a baking dish and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce.
   • Arrange the zucchini halves in a single layer in the baking dish.
   • Fill each zucchini half with the sausage and cream cheese mixture.
   • Top each filled zucchini half with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve and Enjoy!

   • Once baked, remove the stuffed zucchinis from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
   • Serve hot and watch as your guests dig in with delight!

Tips:

• Prepare this dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly, adding 5 to 10 minutes since the dish will be chilled.
• Feel free to customize the filling according to your preferences. You can add different herbs, spices, or even additional vegetables to suit your taste.
• For a vegetarian option, simply omit the sausage and increase the amount of vegetables in the filling mixture.

Get ready to indulge in the irresistible combination of flavors and textures that this stuffed zucchini recipe has to offer. With its savory filling and cheesy topping, it’s guaranteed to leave everyone at the table begging for more!