Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Recipe

This turkey-stuffed zucchini recipe is the perfect blend of flavorsome ground turkey and fresh zucchini. It's a fulfilling main dish that's not only delicious but also nutritious. Explore the synergy of turkey and zucchini, seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices, and baked to perfection.

Photos of Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Recipe

The majority of the ingredients are common pantry staples. However, marjoram and shallot might require a special trip to the market. Marjoram is a sweet, aromatic herb that adds a unique flavor. Shallot, on the other hand, is a type of onion but with a more delicate and slightly sweet flavor.

Main Ingredients for Turkey-Stuffed Zucchini

Zucchini: A type of summer squash that's high in fiber, water, and vitamin A.

Ground turkey: A leaner alternative to ground beef, it's high in protein and lower in fat and calories.

Parmesan cheese: This lends a nutty and fruity taste that enhances the flavor of the dish.

Chicken broth: Adds a savory depth to the stuffing.

Breadcrumbs: Gives a crunchy texture to the topping.

Spices: Paprika, rosemary, garlic powder, marjoram, and dried basil adds a burst of flavor.

One reader, Arlee Brady says:

This turkey-stuffed zucchini recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and the dish is so satisfying. The combination of turkey, zucchini, and spices is just perfect. It's a healthy and delicious meal that's become a family favorite. Highly recommend trying it out!

Arlee Brady

Techniques Required for Turkey-Stuffed Zucchini Recipe

How to prepare zucchini: Cut zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving a ¼-inch thick shell.

How to sauté vegetables: Melt butter in a large sauté pan, then add onion, shallot, and garlic. Cook on medium-low heat until the onions are translucent.

How to cook ground turkey: Add the chopped zucchini to the sautéed vegetables, then add ground turkey and cook until it turns white, breaking it up into smaller pieces.

How to fill zucchini: After the turkey mixture has cooled, mix in parmesan cheese and egg white. Use a spoon to fill the hollowed zucchinis with the stuffing, pressing firmly and topping with breadcrumbs.

How to bake stuffed zucchini: Place the stuffed zucchinis in a baking dish with chicken broth, cover tightly with foil, and bake at 400 degrees F for 35 minutes.

How To Make Turkey Stuffed Zucchini

These turkey stuffed zucchini are the best snack for the summer season! Enjoy savory zucchinis seasoned with wine and cheese then baked to perfection.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4mediumzucchini
1tspbutter
½smallonion,finely diced
1shallot,minced
3cloves garlic,crushed
1ozwhite wine
1 ⅓lbsground turkey,99% fat free
1largeegg white
¼cupParmesan cheese,grated
1cupchicken broth,fat free
2tbspwhole wheat breadcrumbs,seasoned
1tsppaprika
1tsprosemary,fresh chopped
1tspgarlic powder
1tspmarjoram
1tspdried basil
salt and fresh pepper

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Cut zucchini in half lengthwise and, using a spoon or melon baller, scoop out flesh, leaving ¼-inch thick.
Arrange in a baking dish.
Chop the scooped-out flesh of the zucchini in small pieces.
In a large saute pan, melt butter and add onion, shallot, and garlic.
Cook on a medium-low flame for about 2 to 3 minutes, until onions are translucent.
Add chopped zucchini and season with a pinch of salt, cook about 2 to 3 minutes.
Add wine and cook until it reduces.
Add ground turkey and season with salt and pepper, cooking until turkey is white, breaking up in smaller pieces.
Add paprika, rosemary, garlic powder, marjoram and basil.
Mix well and cook another minute.
Place turkey meat in a large mixing bowl and set aside to cool.
When cooled, add parmesan cheese and egg white, mix well.
Using a spoon, fill hollowed zucchinis with stuffing, pressing firmly and top with bread crumbs.
Place chicken broth in bottom of the baking dish and cover tightly with foil.
Bake for 35 minutes.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 823.07kcal
Fat: 39.86g
Saturated Fat: 11.78g
Trans Fat: 0.51g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.34g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 10.56g
Carbohydrates: 17.79g
Fiber: 3.78g
Sugar: 7.92g
Protein: 98.87g
Cholesterol: 323.64mg
Sodium: 1787.62mg
Calcium: 268.96mg
Potassium: 1815.88mg
Iron: 6.99mg
Vitamin A: 153.95µg
Vitamin C: 37.87mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Turkey-Stuffed Zucchini Recipe

When hollowing out the zucchini, be careful not to pierce the skin. This will ensure that the zucchini holds its shape and the turkey stuffing stays inside while baking. Also, when adding the chicken broth to the baking dish, pour it gently around the stuffed zucchinis, not over them, to keep the breadcrumbs on top crispy.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Zucchini Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all your ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Multitask: While the zucchini is baking, use that time to clean up and prepare the table for serving.

Use leftovers: Utilize leftover cooked turkey to save time on preparing the filling.

One-pot cooking: Consider using a single pot for cooking the filling and zucchini to minimize clean-up time.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to save time and reduce stress.

Efficient chopping: Practice efficient chopping techniques to speed up the preparation process.

Substitute Ingredients For Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Recipe

zucchini - Substitute with yellow squash: Yellow squash can be used as a substitute for zucchini in this recipe as it has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter, adding a rich flavor to the dish.
onion - Substitute with leeks: Leeks can be used as a milder substitute for onions, adding a delicate flavor to the dish.
shallot - Substitute with onion: Finely chopped onion can be used as a substitute for shallots, providing a similar flavor profile.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient option with a milder flavor.
white wine - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can be used as a substitute for white wine, adding depth of flavor to the dish.
ground turkey - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken can be used as a lean alternative to ground turkey, providing a similar texture and flavor.
egg white - Substitute with flaxseed egg: A flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) can be used as a vegan substitute for egg white, providing binding properties.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast can be used as a vegan substitute for parmesan cheese, adding a cheesy flavor to the dish.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, adding a savory depth of flavor to the dish.
whole wheat breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for whole wheat breadcrumbs, providing a lighter and crispier texture.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can be used as a substitute for paprika, adding a rich and smoky flavor to the dish.
rosemary - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can be used as a substitute for rosemary, providing a similar earthy and aromatic flavor.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can be used as a substitute for garlic powder, adding a milder onion flavor to the dish.
marjoram - Substitute with oregano: Oregano can be used as a substitute for marjoram, providing a similar herbaceous flavor.
dried basil - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano can be used as a substitute for dried basil, adding a robust and slightly peppery flavor to the dish.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for salt, providing a clean and briny flavor.

Presenting Turkey-Stuffed Zucchini for Maximum Appeal

Elevate the zucchini: Carefully arrange the stuffed zucchini on the plate, ensuring they are evenly spaced and visually appealing.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and thyme over the zucchini for a pop of color and added freshness.
Drizzle with a reduction: Create a beautiful balsamic glaze reduction and delicately drizzle it around the zucchini for an elegant touch.
Add a touch of luxury: Grate a small amount of truffle over the zucchini for a luxurious and indulgent flavor.
Plate with precision: Use tweezers to carefully place microgreens around the zucchini, adding a sophisticated and refined touch to the presentation.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce vibrant and colorful edible flowers to the plate for a visually stunning and elegant presentation.
Consider the plate shape: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the dish and allows the zucchini to be the focal point of the presentation.
Use contrasting textures: Incorporate a crunchy element, such as toasted pine nuts, to add a delightful contrast to the tender zucchini and turkey stuffing.

Essential Tools for Making Turkey-Stuffed Zucchini

Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for a variety of food preparation tasks such as chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Spoon or melon baller: Used for scooping out the flesh of the zucchini.
Baking dish: A glass or ceramic dish used for baking and roasting.
Large saute pan: A wide, flat-bottomed pan with tall sides, used for sautéing, searing, and frying ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing and combining ingredients.
Spatula: Used for stirring and flipping ingredients while cooking.
Foil: Aluminum foil used for covering the baking dish while baking.
Oven: Used for baking the stuffed zucchinis.
Measuring spoons: Used for accurately measuring small amounts of ingredients.
Measuring cups: Used for accurately measuring larger amounts of ingredients.
Saucepan: Used for reducing the wine and broth.
Oven mitts: Used for handling hot dishes and pans from the oven.
Spoon: Used for mixing and stirring ingredients.
Whisk: Used for blending and mixing ingredients thoroughly.

Storing and Freezing Turkey-Stuffed Zucchini

To store leftover turkey-stuffed zucchini, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, place the stuffed zucchini in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the turkey-stuffed zucchini. Wrap each stuffed zucchini half tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen stuffed zucchini, remove the plastic wrap and place the frozen zucchini in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 30-40 minutes or until heated through. You may need to add a few minutes to the cooking time if reheating from frozen.
Alternatively, you can thaw the frozen stuffed zucchini in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This will reduce the reheating time in the oven.

How To Reheat Leftover Turkey-Stuffed Zucchini

The best way to reheat leftover turkey-stuffed zucchini is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the stuffed zucchini in an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the zucchini from drying out and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Another option is to reheat the stuffed zucchini in the microwave. Place the zucchini on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overcook the zucchini, as it can become mushy.
If you have leftover turkey stuffing without the zucchini, you can reheat it in a skillet on the stove. Add a little bit of chicken broth or water to the pan to keep the stuffing moist and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
For a crispy top, you can also reheat the stuffed zucchini under the broiler. Place the zucchini on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
If you have an air fryer, you can also use it to reheat the stuffed zucchini. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the zucchini in the basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on top.

Interesting Fact About Turkey-Stuffed Zucchini

Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to main courses. It is low in calories and a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to any meal.

Is Making Turkey-Stuffed Zucchini at Home Cost-Effective?

This turkey-stuffed zucchini recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Ground turkey is a budget-friendly protein, and zucchini is an affordable and nutritious vegetable. The addition of pantry staples like garlic, onion, and spices keeps the cost low. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15. The dish offers a balanced and flavorful meal, earning a solid 8/10 rating.

Is This Zucchini Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The turkey-stuffed zucchini recipe is a relatively healthy dish with some room for improvement. Here's why:

Positives:

Zucchini is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense vegetable rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals
Ground turkey is a lean protein source, lower in saturated fat compared to ground beef
The recipe includes a variety of herbs and spices, which add flavor without excessive sodium or calories
Using whole wheat breadcrumbs provides additional fiber

Negatives:

The recipe calls for butter and white wine, which add some extra calories and saturated fat
Parmesan cheese, while adding flavor, also contributes to the overall fat and sodium content
The recipe doesn't include a significant source of complex carbohydrates, which are important for a balanced meal

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the butter with olive oil, which is a healthier source of fat
Reduce the amount of parmesan cheese or opt for a lower-fat alternative
Include a side of whole grains, such as quinoa or brown rice, to add complex carbohydrates and additional fiber
Incorporate more vegetables into the stuffing mixture, such as diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content
Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish
Experiment with additional herbs and spices, like cumin or thyme, to enhance the flavor profile without relying on salt

Editor's Opinion on This Turkey-Stuffed Zucchini Dish

This turkey-stuffed zucchini recipe is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the lean protein of ground turkey with the freshness of zucchini. The blend of herbs and spices adds depth to the filling, while the addition of white wine and parmesan cheese elevates the overall taste. The use of whole wheat breadcrumbs and egg white provides a wholesome and nutritious touch. The dish is well-balanced and offers a satisfying and healthy option for a meal.

Enhance Your Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with melted butter.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables, including carrots, bell peppers, and asparagus, seasoned with olive oil and herbs.

Garlic Bread: Warm and crispy garlic bread, brushed with a garlic-infused butter and sprinkled with parsley.

Fruit Salad: Refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi, drizzled with a honey-lime dressing.

Chocolate Mousse: Decadent chocolate mousse topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder.

Similar Recipes to Try Besides Turkey-Stuffed Zucchini

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and colorful dish that can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as ground beef, rice, and tomatoes. They are then baked to perfection and make for a satisfying meal.

Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry: A chicken and vegetable stir-fry is a quick and healthy meal that can be made with a variety of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. The chicken is cooked with a flavorful sauce and served over rice or noodles.

Apple Crisp: Apple crisp is a comforting dessert made with sliced apples, cinnamon, and a crunchy oat topping. It is baked until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Turkey-Stuffed Zucchini Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: For a delicious and savory appetizer, try creating stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering and are sure to impress your guests.

Caprese Skewers: Create a refreshing and colorful appetizer by assembling Caprese skewers with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor. These skewers are a light and tasty option to start off any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of ground turkey and zucchini, creating a flavorful and nutritious dish. The use of fresh herbs and garlic enhances the aroma and taste, while the addition of parmesan cheese brings a rich and savory element. The inclusion of white wine adds depth to the filling, and the use of chicken broth ensures a moist and tender result. With a balance of seasonings and a touch of whole wheat breadcrumbs, this recipe promises a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Have you tried this Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Recipe? Join our Recipe Sharing forum to discuss your experience, ask questions, and share your own twist on this delicious and healthy meal!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground turkey?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, lean ground beef, or even ground pork for a different flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the ground turkey with cooked quinoa, lentils, or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.

Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before using it to stuff the zucchinis.

Can I freeze the stuffed zucchinis?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed zucchinis before baking them. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until they are frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to cook, simply bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Certainly! You can use mozzarella, cheddar, or any other cheese of your choice to suit your taste preferences.