Ingredients:

  • 4 medium zucchini (about 1.5 lbs / 680g)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 lb ground Italian sausage
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the center seeds and flesh, leaving a 1/4-inch thick wall.
  3. Place zucchini boats on a baking sheet, brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 10 minutes.
  4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned.
  5. Stir in the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  6. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Pour in the marinara sauce and dried Italian seasoning.
  8. Stir in the finely chopped reserved zucchini flesh and simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  9. Remove pre-baked zucchini from the oven and spoon the sausage mixture evenly into each boat, pressing down slightly.
  10. Top each boat with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  11. Bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and browned.