Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Easy to Chew (IDDSI Level EC7)

Regular foods that are naturally soft and easy to chew, without tough, dry, or hard components.

Traditional stuffed zucchini can be a little fussy: hollowing out each half, precooking the filling, trying not to overbake the shells. This casserole style version skips the precision work while keeping the same cozy flavors. Everything bakes together in one dish, so the zucchini becomes tender and spoonable while the filling stays moist and flavorful. It’s a practical way to enjoy a classic comfort food with textures that are Easy to Chew (IDDSI Level 7) and swallow, without losing that satisfying mix of tomato, beef, and Parmesan.

Why “Easy to Chew” Matters

For people with sensitive teeth, jaw pain, or mild swallowing difficulties, texture can make or break a meal. This recipe lands in that middle ground: hearty enough to feel like a full dinner, but soft enough that you don’t need to fight with it. The zucchini softens into the sauce, the rice stays plump and tender, and everything binds together with just enough melted cheese to hold its shape. It’s proof that texture modifications don’t have to mean bland or boring.

Make It Your Own

This casserole is endlessly adaptable. You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based crumble, use Italian herbs for a classic flavor or smoked paprika for depth, or stir in extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for more color and nutrition. If you prefer a creamier texture, a spoonful of ricotta or a splash of broth stirred in before baking can help soften the mixture even more. It reheats beautifully, making it a great make ahead meal for busy weeks or for anyone who benefits from softer, nutrient dense leftovers.

Amy Listermann, MS, CCC-SLP

Stuffed Zucchini Casserole Recipe

This Stuffed Zucchini Casserole is a cozy, savory dish that’s gentle in texture but rich in flavor. Tender zucchini, finely minced beef, and a touch of tomato and Parmesan come together into a smooth, cohesive bake that’s satisfying without being heavy. It’s ideal for anyone who needs an easy to chew (IDDSI Level 7) meal, but it still tastes like true comfort food.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American, Italian

Calories: 220

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 medium zucchini peeled
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp onion finely diced or grated
• 2 cloves garlic minced or mashed
• 1½ cup tomatoes peeled, deseeded, and cooked or use canned crushed tomatoes
• ¼ cup parmesan cheese grated or melted in
• ½ cup Minute Rice or 3/4 cup of rice if par cooking your own rice
• salt, pepper, paprika, chopped parsley to taste

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Blender or immersion blender for smoother textures
• Mixing bowl
• Small casserole dish or oven-safe pan

Method

 

1. Peel zucchini and cut into chunks. Simmer or steam until very soft (about 8–10 minutes). Drain well. If par cooking your own rice, cook until about 3/4 of the way cooked
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cook 2–3 minutes until fragrant and soft. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cover and cook until browned but still moist. Drain fat as desired and carefully stir in the cooked or canned blended tomatoes. Simmer gently for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
3. In a large bowl, mash or finely chop zucchini, then stir into the beef-tomato mixture. Add parmesan cheese and mix until melted through. If mixture seems dry, add a splash of broth or tomato juice.
4. For a soft casserole: transfer mixture to a casserole dish, top with extra parmesan, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. Add salt, pepper to taste and serve

SLP Notes

Testing Method: Foods should pass the fork pressure test and be easily broken apart with the side of a fork.

Texture Goal: Normal-appearing foods that are soft, tender, and moist. No tough skins, sharp crusts, or sticky textures.

Bite Size Guidance: Serve in small, manageable pieces; individuals should not need excessive biting or prolonged chewing.

Moisture Retention: Light sauces or dressings keep foods comfortable to chew and swallow without dryness.

A Balanced Meal in One Dish

Beyond convenience, this recipe offers balance: protein from the beef, fiber and minerals from the zucchini, and carbohydrates from the rice or binding grains. It’s the kind of meal that works for family dinners and texture modified diets alike: nourishing, flavorful, and easy to portion or freeze. Whether you serve it with a side of soft garlic bread or just a drizzle of olive oil and parsley, this easy to chew zucchini casserole delivers warmth and comfort in every bite.

Every recipe here is designed for texture sensitive eaters: from dysphagia to dental issues to picky eaters. Get recipe roundups and practical tips by joining the mailing list.

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