Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Sausage and Corn Stuffed Zucchini recipe! Imagine tender zucchini boats packed with savory Italian sausage, sweet corn, and melted mozzarella cheese - a dish so delicious it'll make your taste buds dance and your family beg for seconds. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish to wow your guests, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food that's both nutritious and incredibly satisfying.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise, creating two long boats. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the inner flesh, leaving a 1/4-inch thick shell. Chop the removed zucchini flesh and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook for 5-7 minutes until no pink remains.
- Add the corn and chopped zucchini flesh to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Arrange the zucchini boats on the prepared baking sheet. Generously fill each boat with the sausage and corn mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the stuffed zucchini boats.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until zucchini is tender and cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose firm, medium-sized zucchinis for the best boat-like shape and texture.
- Don't skip scooping out the zucchini flesh - this creates the perfect vessel for your delicious filling and prevents a watery result.
- Make sure to brown the sausage completely to develop deep, rich flavors.
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the zucchini boats for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley make an excellent garnish and add a pop of color and freshness.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 342kcal
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 60mg
