Preparation Steps

• Bring a large pot of water to boil.
• Preheat oven to 400°F.
• Cut zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out flesh with a spoon, leaving about 1/4 inch thick shell. Chop scooped flesh and set aside.
• Drop zucchini halves in boiling water and cook for 1 minute. Remove and drain.
• Spread 1/4 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9x12 inch baking dish. Arrange zucchini halves cut side up.
• Brown the sausage in a large skillet, breaking it up as it cooks until browned. Set aside.
• Heat olive oil in the skillet and sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper on medium-low heat until onions are translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add chopped zucchini flesh, season with salt and pepper, and cook another 2-3 minutes.
• Mix the cooked sausage with the sautéed vegetables and zucchini and cook together for a few more minutes.
• Fill each zucchini shell with approximately 1/3 cup of the sausage mixture, pressing firmly.
• Top each zucchini boat with 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce, 1 tablespoon shredded mozzarella, and 1 teaspoon grated Parmesan cheese.
• Cover with foil and bake in the oven for 35 minutes until cheese is melted and zucchini is cooked through.