Cheesy Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Warm the pasta sauce and reserve. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise. Place 4 halves cut side down on a microwave-safe plate covered with paper towels. Microwave for 4 to 5 minutes or until almost tender. Repeat with remaining 4 halves. Remove and run each under cold water to refresh zucchini. Scoop the middle seedy section from the center of the zucchini, leaving a ¼ inch border. Place the zucchini cut side down on paper towels to drain. Sauté ground beef, onion, and green bell pepper until the meat is no longer pink. Remove from the heat. In a separate bowl mix the cheeses, bread crumbs, seasonings and egg. Once combined, add the ground beef mixture and stir to incorporate. Spoon 1/8 of mixture into each zucchini half. Place in a 9x13 inch casserole dish and bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 40 minutes or until the zucchini are heated thoroughly and the filling has a lightly brown crust. Spoon the heated pasta sauce onto plates. Top with zucchini boats. *If desired, top each boat with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese or finely shredded mozzarella before baking.