Zucchini Boats

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchini (about 8 inches)
• 3/4 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh mushrooms
• 1/2 cup chopped sweet red pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Trim the ends off zucchini. Cut zucchini in half lengthwise; scoop out pulp, leaving 1/2-in. shells. Finely chop pulp.
2. In a skillet, cook beef, zucchini pulp, onion, mushrooms and peppers over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Remove from the heat. Add 1/2 cup cheese, ketchup, salt and pepper; mix well. Spoon into the zucchini shells. Place in a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.
3. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until zucchini is tender. 

Yield: 4 servings.
Alternate stuffing: 8 ounces Italian Sausage, chopped onion, chopped tomatoes.
Alternate topping: 1/4 cup Parmesan, 1/4 cup mozzarella, 1/8 cup breadcrumbs.