Meaty Stuffed Zucchini Boats

• lean ground beef↗1 1⁄2 lbs

  lean

• large onion, chopped↗1

  chopped

• large green pepper, chopped↗1

  chopped

• jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped↗1

  seeded and chopped

• soft breadcrumbs↗1 1⁄4 cups
• egg, beaten↗1

  beaten

• dried parsley flakes↗1 tablespoon
• dried basil↗1 teaspoon
• italian seasoning↗1 teaspoon
• salt↗1 teaspoon
• pepper↗1⁄4 teaspoon
• tomato sauce↗2

  canned, divided

• medium tomatoes, coarsely chopped↗2

  coarsely chopped

• medium zucchini4 -5
• shredded mozzarella cheese2 cups

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   In a large bowl, combine the first 11 ingredients and one can of tomato sauce; mix well.

2. 2

   Stir in tomatoes.

3. 3

   Halve zucchini lengthwise; scoop out center part of zucchini to about 1/4 inch from edges.

4. 4

   Fill with meat mixture; place in two 13x9 inch baking dishes.

5. 5

   Spoon remaining tomato sauce over each.

6. 6

   Bake uncovered, at 375 degrees for 45 minutes or until the zucchini is tender.

7. 7

   Sprinkle with cheese during last few minutes or baking.