Easy Homemade Stuffed Marrow Recipe: Garden-Fresh Comfort Food

Marrow lovers will adore this scrumptious stuffed marrow dish that brings rustic Mediterranean charm right to your kitchen.

Mediterranean ingredients dance beautifully inside tender vegetable vessels waiting to surprise you.

Crisp herbs and rich cheese create magical flavor combinations that sing with each bite.

Seasonal vegetables provide incredible depth and nutrition to this simple yet elegant meal.

Fragrant spices whisper stories of traditional cooking techniques passed through generations.

Minimal preparation ensures anyone can craft this delightful plate without complicated steps.

You’ll find yourself returning to this recipe whenever comfort and deliciousness call.

Hairy Bikers Stuffed Marrow FAQ Guide

• What are marrows, and are they the same as zucchini?

Marrows are mature zucchinis that grow much larger and have a slightly different texture. While similar, marrows are bigger, less tender, and have a more robust flavor compared to young zucchinis.

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works perfectly as a lean alternative to beef. It provides similar texture and absorbs the seasonings well, making it an excellent protein substitute in this recipe.

• How do I know if the marrow boats are cooked properly?

The marrow boats should be tender when pierced with a fork and have a golden-brown color around the edges. The flesh should be soft but not mushy, indicating it’s perfectly roasted.

What’s Great About Hairy Bikers Stuffed Marrow

• Craft Quick Comfort Food: This stuffed marrow recipe transforms a simple vegetable into a hearty, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
• Master Versatile Cooking Technique: Learn a step-by-step method that combines roasting, sautéing, and baking, perfect for building culinary confidence and expanding cooking skills.
• Enjoy Nutrient-Packed Meal: Packed with protein from beef, vegetables, and a cheesy sauce, this dish delivers a balanced, nutritious dinner that keeps everyone happy and full.
• Customize with Ease: Swap beef for ground turkey, add different herbs, or adjust cheese types to make this recipe uniquely yours while keeping the core technique intact.

Hairy Bikers Stuffed Marrow Ingredients You Need

• Marrow: A large, mild-flavored summer squash perfect for stuffing and baking.
• Beef: Ground meat that provides rich flavor and protein for the stuffing.

• Onion, Garlic, Carrot: Aromatic vegetables that build a deep, savory base for the meat mixture.
• Bay Leaf: Adds subtle herbal notes to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Tomatoes: Bring moisture and tangy sweetness to the meat filling.

• Butter, Flour, Milk: Classic components for creating a smooth, creamy white sauce.
• Cheese: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• Mustard: Provides a subtle tang and complexity to the sauce.

• Oil: Used for sautéing vegetables and meat.
• Tomato Puree: Intensifies the tomato flavor in the meat mixture.
• Stock: Adds moisture and depth to the meat filling.

How To Make Hairy Bikers Stuffed Marrow

Step 1: Prepare Marrow Vessels

Slice the marrow lengthwise into boat-shaped halves. Carefully remove the inner seeds and soft center using a spoon, creating a hollow space for filling. Place the marrow boats on a baking tray and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F for 30 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 2: Create Flavorful Meat Filling

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Introduce ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart and browning thoroughly for deep flavor development.

Step 3: Build Robust Filling Mixture

• Minced garlic
• Diced carrots
• Bay leaf
• Crushed tomatoes
• Tomato puree
• Beef stock

Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken.

Step 4: Craft Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually pour in milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Incorporate shredded cheese and a touch of mustard, creating a smooth, rich sauce.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake Stuffed Marrow

Fill the roasted marrow boats with the prepared meat mixture. Generously pour the cheese sauce over the top, ensuring complete coverage. Return to the oven and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until the top turns golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes. Optional: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and freshness. Serve hot as a hearty main course.

Best Tips For Hairy Bikers Stuffed Marrow

• Roast Marrow First: Pre-roasting the marrow boats creates a firmer texture and helps remove excess moisture, ensuring a better final dish.
• Control Meat Browning: Take time to brown beef thoroughly for deeper flavor development and rich caramelization.
• Balance Sauce Consistency: Gradually add milk to the roux and whisk continuously to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy cheese sauce.
• Choose Alternative Meats: Swap beef with lamb, turkey, or plant-based mince for different flavor profiles and dietary preferences.
• Fresh Herb Boost: Sprinkle chopped parsley, basil, or thyme on top before serving to add brightness and fresh aromatics.

Try These Versions Of Hairy Bikers Stuffed Marrow

• Vegetarian Delight: Replace beef with lentils or plant-based mince for a protein-packed meat-free version. Add extra herbs like thyme and rosemary for depth.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap marrow with zucchini boats for a lighter alternative. Use cauliflower rice instead of traditional fillings to reduce carbohydrates.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use cornstarch instead of flour for the sauce. Choose gluten-free stock and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Mediterranean Style: Incorporate feta cheese, olives, and oregano into the meat mixture. Top with a yogurt-based sauce for a Greek-inspired transformation.

Tasty Pairings For Hairy Bikers Stuffed Marrow

• Pair with Bold Red Wine: Select a robust red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah that complements the rich beef and cheese sauce, cutting through the hearty flavors with its tannic structure.
• Serve Alongside Crisp Green Salad: Create a light contrast with a fresh mixed green salad dressed in vinaigrette, helping balance the dense, meaty stuffed marrow and cleanse the palate.
• Match with Crusty Sourdough Bread: Provide a perfect accompaniment for soaking up the delicious sauce and adding textural variety to the main dish, enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Complement with Roasted Root Vegetables: Add garlic-roasted parsnips or carrots as a side dish to echo the earthy vegetables in the stuffing and provide additional nutritional depth to the meal.

How To Keep Hairy Bikers Stuffed Marrow Good

• Store leftover stuffed marrow in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture loss and preserve flavor.
• Wrap individual portions in freezer-safe wrap or container. Keeps well for 2-3 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
• Place portion on microwave-safe plate. Cover with damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
• Preheat oven to 160C. Place marrow in baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated completely through. Add extra cheese on top for extra deliciousness.

Stuffed Marrow Recipe

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4.7 from 20 reviews

• Total Time: 75 mins
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean-inspired Stuffed Marrow brings classic Italian flavors to your dinner table with ground lamb, herbs, and creamy feta cheese nestled inside tender marrow. Simple ingredients combine for a delightful meal you can savor with crusty bread and a crisp salad.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein:

• 250 grams (8.8 ounces) beef mince

Vegetables:

• 1 carrot
• 1 onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tin (400 grams/14.1 ounces) chopped tomatoes

Seasonings and Aromatics:

• 2 bay leaves
• 12 teaspoons salt
• 18 teaspoons ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Cooking Fats and Liquids:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon tomato puree
• 1 cup beef stock
• 25 grams (0.88 ounces) butter
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1 cup milk

Cheese:

• 1 cup grated cheddar
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan

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Instructions

1. Slice marrow lengthwise and carefully hollow out the interior, removing seeds and soft flesh with a spoon.
2. Preheat oven to 200C and roast marrow boats for 25-30 minutes until slightly tender and edges begin to soften.
3. Heat oil in a skillet and sauté finely chopped onions until translucent and fragrant.
4. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it into small pieces and cooking until deeply browned and caramelized.
5. Incorporate minced garlic, diced carrots, crumbled bay leaf, chopped tomatoes, tomato puree, and beef stock into the meat mixture.
6. Simmer the filling for 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to reduce and thicken.
7. For the cheese sauce, melt butter in a saucepan and whisk in flour to create a smooth roux.
8. Gradually pour in milk, continuously whisking to prevent lumps and create a creamy consistency.
9. Stir in grated cheese and mustard, creating a rich and tangy sauce.
10. Fill roasted marrow boats with the beef mixture, ensuring even distribution.
11. Pour cheese sauce over the stuffed marrows, covering the surface completely.
12. Return to oven at 180C and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and bubbling.
13. Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs or additional cheese before serving.

Notes

• Select firm, fresh marrows with smooth, unblemished skin for the best texture and flavor.
• Carefully scoop out seeds to create a clean boat shape without piercing the marrow’s bottom.
• Enhance the dish’s nutrition by swapping beef for plant-based alternatives like lentils or tofu for vegetarian guests.
• Season the meat mixture generously with herbs like thyme or rosemary to add depth and complexity to the overall taste profile.

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 65 mins
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 405 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 7200 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg