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Easy Low Carb Stuffed Zucchini Boats Recipe with Cheesy Filling Made Perfect

low carb stuffed zucchini boats - featured image

A quick and easy low carb meal featuring tender zucchini boats filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture. Perfect for busy weeknights and suitable for keto and gluten-free diets.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium zucchinis (68 inches long)
  • 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wash and dry the zucchinis. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise, then use a spoon or melon baller to scoop out the seeds and some flesh, leaving about a ¼-inch (0.6 cm) border around the edges to hold the filling. Place the hollowed-out boats on a baking sheet.
  3. Drizzle the zucchini boats with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 10-12 minutes until just tender but still holding shape.
  4. While the zucchini roasts, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
  5. Remove the zucchini from the oven. Carefully spoon the cheesy filling into each boat, packing it gently but evenly.
  6. Return the stuffed zucchinis to the oven. Bake for another 15-18 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top. For a crispier top, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  7. Take the boats out and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Pre-roasting zucchini prevents sogginess and keeps boats firm. Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth mixing. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded. Optionally sauté garlic in olive oil for 30 seconds before mixing for milder flavor. Can be made ahead and reheated; add a few extra minutes when reheating. For a crispier finish, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking. Variations include adding cooked ground meat or vegetables to the filling, or air frying at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: low carb, stuffed zucchini, zucchini boats, cheesy filling, keto, gluten-free, easy dinner, healthy recipe