INGREDIENTS
Seasoning Ingredients
2 T. olive oil
1 bell pepper, finely chopped
1 sweet onion, finely chopped
½ t. salt
¼ t. pepper
1 lb. ground meat (beef, turkey, venison, etc.)
1 T. cumin
½ t. paprika
½ t. garlic powder
½ t. chili powder
½ t. salt
¼ t. pepper
¼ t. cayenne pepper
2 c. mixed cheeses, divided (Cheddar, Colby Jack, Mozzarella, etc.)
4-5 Zucchini, ends cut off, cut in half lengthwise and insides scooped out
Green onions, chopped (optional)
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Sautée bell pepper, onion, ½ t. salt and ¼ t. pepper in butter for 3-5 minutes over medium heat in a large pan.
Combine seasoning ingredients in a small bowl.
Add ground meat and continue cooking for an additional 7-10 minutes.
When meat is almost done cooking, drain liquid from pan and add seasoning ingredients. Continue cooking until meat is completely cooked through.
Turn off heat and mix in 1 ½ c. mixed cheeses.
Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and place zucchini boats on it (cut-side up).
Drizzle a bit of olive oil and sprinkle salt on the inside of each boat, for seasoning.
Scoop even amounts of meat mixture into the 8-10 zucchini boats.
Cover boats with a sheet of aluminum foil and cook for 15 minutes.
Remove aluminum foil and continue cooking an additional 10-15 minutes, or until zucchinis are completely cooked.
Top each boat with about a tablespoon of cheese and return to oven for 1-2 more minutes to melt cheese. Serve with chopped onions and enjoy!
