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Stuffed Courgettes

Name: Stuffed Courgettes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: Stuffed Courgettes
Ingredients: 2 large courgettes; 250 grams beef mince; 1 small onion; 1 clove garlic; 1 tablespoon tomato puree; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 50 grams cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pinch salt; 1 pinch black pepper

Stuffed Courgettes are a fresh and healthy dinner option that combines tender vegetables with a savoury meat filling. This recipe uses simple ingredients like minced beef and tomatoes to create a satisfying meal. It is a great way to use up garden vegetables during the summer months. You can serve them on their own or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the juices.

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Reasons to choose stuffed courgettes

This recipe for stuffed courgettes is incredibly easy to prepare for a midweek family dinner. The combination of seasoned beef and melted cheese makes it a hit with both adults and children. You only need a few basic pantry staples to bring out the natural flavours of the courgettes. It is a light yet filling dish that does not require much time in the kitchen.

A step-by-step guide to stuffed courgettes

Step 1

Prepare the base: Wash the courgettes and cut them in half lengthways. Use a small spoon to scoop out the middle of each half to create a boat shape. Keep the flesh and chop it into small pieces to use in the filling. Place the hollowed courgettes into a baking dish.

Step 2

Cook the filling: Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and fry until they are soft. Stir in the beef mince and cook until it is browned all over. Add the chopped courgette flesh and tomato puree to the pan.

Step 3

Season and fill: Season the meat mixture with salt, pepper and dried oregano. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the liquid has reduced slightly. Spoon the filling generously into the prepared courgette boats. Press the mixture down gently so it stays in place during baking.

Step 4

Bake and serve: Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top of the filled vegetables. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius for about 20 minutes. The cheese should be melted and golden when finished. Serve the stuffed courgettes while they are hot.

Extra tips for stuffed courgettes

Choosing medium to large courgettes makes them much easier to hollow out and fill with the meat mixture. If you want a bit of extra crunch, you can mix some breadcrumbs with the cheese before sprinkling it on top. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the beef mince before adding the tomato puree to keep the filling firm. You can also add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling for extra texture and flavour.

Stuffed courgettes are best served fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in the fridge for the next day. Reheating them in the oven helps maintain the texture of the vegetable boat better than a microwave.

You can also try these recipes: berry trifle, fried chicken or beef patty sandwich.

Ingredients

servings

Adjust quantity

2 large courgettes
250 grams beef mince
1 small onion
1 clove garlic
1 tablespoon tomato puree
1 teaspoon dried oregano
50 grams cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pinch salt
1 pinch black pepper

Cooking time

Nutrition information

NUTRITIONper serving

Energy:1874 kJ / 448 kcal
Fat:34 g
- of which saturates:13 g
Carbohydrates:5 g
- of which sugars:3 g
Protein:30 g
Fibre:2 g
Salt:400 mg

You can prepare the meat filling and hollow out the vegetables a few hours before cooking. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble just before you are ready to bake. This makes stuffed courgettes a great option for a quick evening meal.

How do I know when the Stuffed Courgettes are fully cooked?

The dish is ready when the courgette skin is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. The cheese on top should be bubbling and slightly browned. Ensure the meat filling is piping hot throughout before serving your stuffed courgettes.

How long does it take to make Stuffed Courgettes?

Stuffed Courgettes usually takes about 25 minutes to make. The time can vary slightly with the quantity and method. Check the texture towards the end.