Keto Friendly Zucchini Boats

Name: Keto Friendly Zucchini Boats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis; 1 pound ground beef or turkey; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup diced tomatoes; 1/4 cup chopped onions; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Nourish & Refresh Recipes

I absolutely love making keto-friendly zucchini boats for a fun and low-carb meal. They are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to customize, making them perfect for any occasion. Each boat is filled to the brim with savory ingredients, bursting with flavor while keeping my keto goals in check. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, these zucchini boats will impress everyone at the table!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T21:22:27.684Z

When I first decided to embark on a keto lifestyle, I knew I needed to find creative ways to enjoy my favorite dishes without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. That's when I discovered zucchini boats! By hollowing out fresh zucchini and filling them with a mixture of ground meat, cheese, and spices, I was able to create a dish that is not only fulfilling but also incredibly delightful.

Experimenting with different fillings has been a game-changer. I often use leftover ingredients in my fridge, combining them with the herbs and spices I love. This method of cooking not only reduces waste but also keeps every meal exciting and new!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Low-carb and perfect for keto diets
Flavor-packed with customizable fillings
A delightful way to enjoy healthy vegetables
Visually stunning and fun to make

Choosing the Right Zucchini

When selecting zucchinis for your boats, look for ones that are firm and have a smooth, glossy skin. Medium-sized zucchinis work best as they hold their shape well during baking and create a good balance between filling and vegetable. Overly large zucchinis can be watery and less flavorful. If you find zucchinis that are slightly larger, consider increasing the filling ingredients to ensure each boat is packed with flavor.

Also, feel free to experiment with the type of zucchini you use. For instance, yellow squash can be used for a twist in color and flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if needed, as varying sizes and types might change how long the zucchini needs to bake to achieve the desired tenderness.

Filling Variations

While ground beef or turkey always makes for a hearty filling, you can easily switch things up. For a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms, black beans, or quinoa mixed with diced bell peppers and spices. You might even add a bit of crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy texture. Remember to adjust the cooking time depending on the filling to ensure everything is heated thoroughly.

I love to include different seasonings based on the flavor profile I’m aiming for. Try using taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex twist or add some curry powder for an Indian-inspired version. Just be cautious with seasoning quantities to avoid overwhelming the fresh taste of the zucchini.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious zucchini boats!

Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis
1 pound ground beef or turkey
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup chopped onions
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your zucchini boats:

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides using a spoon, creating a hollow boat shape. Drizzle with a little olive oil, and set aside.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground meat, onions, and garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. Stir in diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then simmer for about 5 minutes.

Fill the Boats

Spoon the meat mixture into each zucchini half, pressing it down to fill generously. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake

Place the filled zucchini boats on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious keto-friendly zucchini boats!

Now you're ready to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite herbs to the filling mixture. You can also substitute the ground meat with plant-based options for a vegetarian version.

Serving Suggestions

These keto-friendly zucchini boats can serve as a main dish or a side. Pair them with a light salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the filling. For a heartier meal, consider serving them with cauliflower rice flavored with herbs, or a side of steamed broccoli. This way, you're still keeping it low-carb but adding variety to your plate.

Another fun idea is to serve them as an appetizer during parties. Cut the zucchini boats into smaller pieces after baking and arrange them on a platter. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil after baking can elevate their presentation.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, be sure to cover them with foil to prevent the cheese from burning, and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the texture may not be as delightful as oven reheating.

For meal prep, consider preparing the filling in advance. You can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just scoop into the zucchini boats and bake when ready to eat. This saves time on busy days while allowing you to enjoy a homemade, low-carb meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these zucchini boats ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the zucchini and filling in advance, then store them separately in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, just fill the boats and bake!

→ What are some good filling options?

Feel free to get creative! You can use cooked quinoa, black beans, shredded chicken, or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option.

→ Can I freeze zucchini boats?

Yes, but it's best to freeze them before baking. After filling the zucchini, wrap them tightly and place in the freezer. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ How do I know when the zucchini is done?

The zucchini should be tender but not mushy. You can test it with a fork; it should pierce easily but still hold its shape.