For a vegetarian option, substitute the Italian sausage with a blend of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, and vegetables. To prevent the zucchini from becoming too watery, you can lightly salt the zucchini shells after scooping out the flesh and let them sit for 30 minutes before stuffing. Pat them dry with paper towels. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone or ricotta, for a unique flavor profile. Serve these stuffed zucchini boats with a side of quinoa, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Slow Cooker Stuffed Zucchini
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PREP TIME30 mins
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COOK TIME6 hrs 30 mins
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TOTAL TIME7 hrs
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SERVING4 People
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VIEWS30
Transform simple zucchini into a hearty and flavorful slow-cooked masterpiece. These stuffed zucchini boats, brimming with savory Italian sausage and a vibrant tomato sauce, are a comforting and effortless meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate23 g
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Cholesterol67 mg
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Fiber5 g
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Protein28 g
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Saturated Fat15 g
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Sodium1658 mg
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Sugar11 g
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Fat52 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
Step
5 mins
Carefully scoop out the flesh from the zucchini halves, leaving a shell approximately 1/8 inch thick. Reserve the zucchini flesh for another culinary creation, or discard. (5 minutes)
02
Step
1 mins
In a food processor, combine the cored tomatoes, 1/4 cup olive oil, crushed garlic, Italian herb seasoning, sugar, salt, pepper, and basil leaves. Pulse until you achieve a blended, sauce-like consistency. (1 minute)
03
Step
5 mins
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent. (5 minutes)
04
Step
10 mins
Introduce the Italian sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and crumbly. (10 minutes)
05
Step
2 mins
Stir in the prepared tomato mixture and allow it to simmer gently. Incorporate the Parmesan cheese, ensuring it's evenly distributed. (2 minutes)
06
Step
1 mins
Arrange the zucchini shells in the bottom of a large slow cooker, trimming them if necessary to fit snugly. Spoon the savory sausage mixture generously into each zucchini shell.
07
Step
6 hrs
Cover the slow cooker and cook on High heat until the zucchini is tender. (6 hours)
08
Step
10 mins
Remove the cover and blanket each stuffed zucchini with a layer of grated mozzarella cheese. Replace the cover and continue cooking on High until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly. (10 minutes)
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RECIPE REVIEWS
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Lorna Hand
Jun 10, 2025My kids loved this recipe, even the ones who usually turn their noses up at zucchini!
Anastasia Hudson
Apr 4, 2025This recipe was a lifesaver on a busy weeknight! The slow cooker did all the work, and the zucchini turned out perfectly tender.
Austin Weber
Mar 19, 2025I added a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture for a little extra heat. It was a delicious addition!
Marielle Collins
Mar 6, 2025I've made this recipe several times, and it's always a hit. It's so versatile, and I love that I can customize the filling with different ingredients.