I love quick dinner ideas, especially when they use fresh garden produce. Zucchini boats are a perfect example of easy, customizable meals that are simple to make and always hit the spot. If you’re looking for delicious ways to enjoy zucchini, you’ve come to the right place.
I’ve put together three of my favorite zucchini boat recipes for you. These ideas are great whether you’re sticking to a keto diet or just want a wholesome meal. Get ready to enjoy some fantastic dinners!
Jump to Recipe:
- 1. Easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats
- 2. Easy Keto Zucchini Lasagna Boats Recipe
- 3. Easy Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe
Make Easy Keto Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats
This recipe puts the tasty flavors of chicken parmesan right into a zucchini boat. It’s a fantastic low-carb dinner idea that is simple to make and serve.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Chicken Zucchini Boats
- Chicken Prep: Make sure to finely chop your cooked chicken so it mixes well with the sauce.
- Cheese Layer: Don’t skip the mozzarella on top; it gets bubbly and golden brown for a great finish.
- Zucchini Size: Choose medium zucchinis for good ‘boat’ shape and proper cooking time.
What You Need for Chicken Parm Zucchini Boats
- 2 large zucchinis
- 1 cup cooked chicken, chopped
- 1/2 cup low-sugar marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
⏱️ Time: 35 minutes🍽️ Yields: 2 servings
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Zucchini Boats
Step 1: Prepare Zucchini Boats
Wash your zucchinis and cut them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds, leaving about a quarter-inch border. Lightly salt the inside of the zucchini halves.
Step 2: Make the Chicken Filling
In a bowl, mix the chopped cooked chicken, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and half of the parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Stuff and Bake
Fill each zucchini half generously with the chicken mixture. Place them on a baking sheet. Top with the shredded mozzarella and the rest of the parmesan cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
📝 Final Note
Serve these boats hot as a main meal. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Make Easy Keto Zucchini Lasagna Boats Recipe
Enjoy all the comforting taste of lasagna in a light, keto-friendly zucchini boat. This recipe is a smart way to get your lasagna fix without extra carbs.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Lasagna Zucchini Boats
- Ricotta Mix: Add a pinch of nutmeg to your ricotta for an extra layer of flavor like traditional lasagna.
- Drain Zucchini: After scooping, lightly salt the zucchini and let it sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry. This helps prevent watery boats.
- Meat Sauce: A good quality, low-sugar marinara is key for a keto-friendly sauce.
What You Need for Keto Zucchini Lasagna
- 2 large zucchinis
- 1/2 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1/2 cup low-sugar marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
⏱️ Time: 40 minutes🍽️ Yields: 2 servings
How to Make Zucchini Lasagna Boats
Step 1: Prep Zucchini and Meat
Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides. Cook ground meat in a pan until browned, drain any fat. Mix meat with marinara sauce.
Step 2: Prepare Cheese Filling
In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg yolk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble Lasagna Boats
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of each zucchini boat. Top with a layer of the ricotta mixture. Add more meat sauce, then top with shredded mozzarella and parmesan.
Step 4: Bake to Golden
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
📝 Final Note
These boats are best served fresh from the oven. You can prepare them ahead of time and bake later.
Make Easy Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe
These zucchini boats are filled with a hearty, seasoned meat and vegetable mix. They make a filling and satisfying meal for any day of the week.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Stuffed Zucchini Boats
- Ground Meat Options: You can use ground beef, turkey, or a mix of pork and beef for the filling.
- Added Veggies: Feel free to add finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to your filling for extra goodness.
- Cheese Topping: A sprinkle of your favorite cheese adds a nice finish, but it’s optional if you prefer.
What You Need for Stuffed Zucchini Boats
- 2 large zucchinis
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for keto)
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
⏱️ Time: 45 minutes🍽️ Yields: 2-4 servings
How to Make Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Step 1: Prep Zucchini and Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the pulp, chop the pulp finely and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, mix ground meat, chopped zucchini pulp, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined.
Step 3: Stuff and Bake
Generously fill each zucchini half with the meat mixture. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the zucchini is tender. If using, sprinkle with cheddar cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.
📝 Final Note
This recipe is great for meal prep. Cooked boats can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.