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Air Fryer Stuffed Zucchini - Easy, Flavorful, and Weeknight-Friendly

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 medium zucchini (firm, similar size)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground turkey (or beef, chicken, or plant-based crumbles)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup cooked rice or quinoa (optional for extra bulk)
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan
  • 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil, plus more for garnish
  • Nonstick spray for the basket

Instructions

  • Prep the zucchini: Trim ends and slice each zucchini lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and some flesh, leaving about 1/4-inch walls. Chop about half of the scooped zucchini and reserve it for the filling.
  • Season the boats: Lightly brush the cut sides with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
  • Sauté aromatics: Heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds.
  • Brown the protein: Add ground turkey. Cook, breaking it up, until no longer pink, 5–6 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
  • Add zucchini and sauce: Stir in the chopped zucchini flesh and cook 2 minutes to soften. Add marinara and simmer 2–3 minutes. If using rice or quinoa, fold it in now.
  • Cheese it up: Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan and parsley or basil. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  • Fill the boats: Spoon the mixture into the zucchini shells, mounding it slightly. Top evenly with shredded mozzarella.
  • Air fry: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Spray the basket. Arrange stuffed zucchini in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Air fry 8–12 minutes, until zucchini is tender and cheese is browned in spots.
  • Finish and serve: Let rest 2 minutes. Garnish with more herbs and a dusting of Parmesan if you like. Serve warm.