My mom is a great cook. She always tries new things, but she has her "signature dishes" too. Growing up, there were always meals my brother, father, or I would consistently beg for.
One of my all time favorite dishes of my mom's is Stuffed Zucchini. Now you, too, can enjoy this delicious meal! Thanks mom!... I hope I made it "right"!!
STUFFED ZUCCHINI
5 good sized zucchini
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 eggs
Kosher salt
Black pepper
1 lb lean ground beef
1/4 bread crumbs
Italian seasoning
Parmesan/mozzarella cheese blend
Your favorite red pasta sauce
Preheat your over to 350. Slice the zucchini length-wise. Use a spoon to scrape out the centers of the zucchini to make a nice deep well in each one. (SAVE THESE SCRAPINGS) Pierce each piece of zucchini 3 or 4 times with a fork and place cut-side down on a lined cookie sheet. Bake for 20 minutes to soften.
While the zucchini bakes, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of kosher salt over the zucchini scrapings and let them sit for about 10-20 minutes. The salt will help draw out the extra moisture.
Brown the ground beef. Let cool slightly.
Drain the liquid from the Zucchini innards, give them a good squeeze and get out most of that extra liquid. We don't want a soggy meal!!
Add 2 eggs, bread crumbs, a bit more salt and pepper to taste, Italian seasoning to taste (I use about a tablespoon), diced onion, and beef. Mix it up real good.
Spray the bottom of a 9x13 pan with cooking spray and place the open zucchini in it to fit. Generously spoon filling into each one, top with another zucchini half. If you end up with extra mixture (and you probably will!!) just sprinkle it around the pan. Top with red sauce to your liking. I typically use half a jar/can. Cover with foil and bake 40 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle with cheese blend and BROIL just until golden and delicious!
My mom ALWAYS served this meal with a side of creamy Parmesan noodles. They were usually Lipton or similar. As long as they are the thin angel hair noodles and Parm flavor, they go PERFECT with this dish!
Enjoy!!
