Stuffed zucchini

Stuffed zucchini features hollowed zucchini filled with a flavorful mix of tomato sauce, two types of cheese, and olives, then baked to perfection. This dish is healthy and ideal for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

01 Jan 2026
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

6 zucchini
1 cup tomato sauce
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cups mozzarella cheese
6 tsp olives

Stuffed zucchini is a delicious and healthy dish that's perfect for lunch or dinner. It's packed with flavor from the tomato sauce, two types of cheese, and olives. This simple recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Zucchini:
- Wash the zucchini thoroughly.
- Trim the ends off each zucchini.
- Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise.
- Using a spoon, gently scoop out the seeds and a small portion of the flesh from each half to create hollow boats.

3. Prepare the Stuffing:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the tomato sauce, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese (reserve the other cup for topping), and 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese.
- Add the sliced olives to the mixture and stir until well combined.

4. Stuff the Zucchini:
- Arrange the zucchini halves on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.
- Spoon the prepared stuffing mixture into each zucchini hollow, distributing it evenly.

5. Add the Topping:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the stuffed zucchini.

6. Bake:
- Place the baking sheet or dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

7. Serve:
- Remove the stuffed zucchini from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your stuffed zucchini hot, either as a main course or a flavorful side dish.

Cooking stuffed zucchini is an easy and rewarding task that results in a tasty and nutritious meal. The combination of fresh zucchini, savory tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and flavorful olives makes this dish truly delightful. Enjoy your wholesome, homemade stuffed zucchini!

Stuffed zucchini FAQ:

What size baking dish should I use for stuffed zucchini?

You can use a standard baking sheet or a 9x13 inch baking dish to accommodate the zucchini halves. Ensure the dish is deep enough to hold any excess tomato sauce that may bubble during baking.

How do I know when the stuffed zucchini is done?

The stuffed zucchini is done when the zucchini is tender and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. This typically takes about 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C). You can also pierce the zucchini with a fork; it should easily go through.

Can I substitute the cheeses in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other melting cheeses like cheddar or gouda. However, Parmesan adds a unique flavor, so it's best to keep that unless you’re looking for a different taste.

How should I store leftover stuffed zucchini?

Store leftover stuffed zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

What can I serve with stuffed zucchini?

Stuffed zucchini can be served as a main dish or as a side. Great accompaniments include a green salad, grilled meats, or crusty bread for a more filling meal.

Tips:

- Choose zucchini that are similar in size for even cooking.

- Pre-bake the zucchini shells for about 10 minutes to ensure they are tender.

- Season the tomato sauce with herbs such as basil or oregano for added flavor.

- For a crispy topping, you can broil the stuffed zucchini for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

- Make sure to evenly distribute the mozzarella and parmesan cheese to ensure every bite is cheesy and delicious.

- If you want a meatier version, consider adding cooked ground beef or sausage to the stuffing.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 160kcal
Protein 13g
Carbohydrates 8g
Fiber 1.84g
Sugar 4.87g
Fat 8g

Stuffed zucchini