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Sausage Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A deliciously savory twist on a garden favorite, this sausage-stuffed zucchini is a perfect balance of hearty and healthy. Fresh zucchini boats are hollowed out and filled with a mouthwatering mixture of seasoned sausage, aromatic herbs, breadcrumbs, and parmesan. Baked until golden and bubbling, each bite delivers rich, meaty flavor with a tender vegetable base. Whether served as a satisfying main or a standout side dish, this recipe is as comforting as it is impressive—ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or summer gatherings. It’s a great way to use zucchini while it’s in season!
- Author: Jennifer Nicole Bianchini, MS, RD, LDN, IFNCP, RYT
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1 lb turkey Italian sausage
- 3 cloves garlic
- 3/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano divided
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 4 cups marinara sauce, divided
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 F.
- Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds , leaving a thick 1/4 inch wall on each side.
- Place the zucchini upside down on a casserole dish and par bake for 10 minutes.
- While the zucchini is in the oven, heat a medium skillet over medium high heat. Add the sausage and minced garlic. Cook until the sausage is almost done, then remove from the heat.
- Once the zucchini has parbaked, remove them from the oven and allow to cool for a couple minutes on a separate plate from the casserole dish.
- Add 1/2 cup Pecorino Romano, the bread crumbs, chopped basil, and 3 cup of marinara sauce to the turkey sausage mixture.
- Spread 1/2 cup of the remaining marinara sauce on the bottom of the casserole dish. Place the halved zucchini right-side up in the casserole dish. Divide the turkey mixture between the zucchini halves using a spoon. Pour the remaining 1/2 marinara sauce on top of the stuffed zucchinis and sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup parmesan.
- Place the zucchini in the oven and roast for 30 minutes or until the zucchini is fork tender.
- Store the leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.