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If you’re looking for a healthy, satisfying, and visually stunning dinner, Ground Beef Zucchini Boats are your answer. These low-carb stuffed zucchini boats are packed with savory ground meat, layered with juicy tomatoes, gooey melted cheese, and topped off with fresh herbs for a restaurant-worthy meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
Inspired by Mediterranean flavors and keto-friendly principles, this dish combines wholesome ingredients like zucchini, ground beef or sausage, fresh herbs, and rich cheese. It’s a simple, flexible recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or impressing guests at dinner parties.
Why Make These Ground Beef Zucchini Boats?
Whether you’re following a keto diet, watching your carbs, or simply trying to get more vegetables into your meals, zucchini boats are a deliciously clever solution.
Here’s why you’ll love them:
Low in Carbs, High in Satisfaction
Zucchini is naturally low in carbs but incredibly filling when stuffed with protein and topped with cheese.Rich in Flavor
Between the savory seasoned meat, tangy tomato sauce, and melty cheese, every bite is a flavor explosion.Customizable
This recipe is easy to tweak based on what you have at home—use beef or sausage, mozzarella or cheddar, fresh herbs or pesto.Meal Prep Friendly
Make a big batch, refrigerate or freeze, and enjoy easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.Visually Appealing
These boats are beautiful to look at—perfect for sharing on Instagram or impressing guests.
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Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these cheesy ground beef zucchini boats:
4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise and scooped out
1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for a spicier option)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup tomato paste or 1/2 cup marinara sauce
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 large tomato, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp pesto sauce (optional, as a base layer)
Olive oil, for sautéing and brushing the zucchini
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Read More: Bacon Egg and Cheese Muffins
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Zucchini Boats
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh using a spoon, creating boat-like cavities.
Lightly brush the inside of each boat with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
2. Make the Meat Filling
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant and softened.
Add the ground beef (or sausage) and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the tomato paste or marinara sauce. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using pesto or chopped herbs, add them now for extra flavor.
3. Assemble the Boats
If using pesto, spread a small spoonful into the bottom of each zucchini boat.
Fill each boat generously with the meat mixture.
Place a few slices of red bell pepper over the meat layer.
Top with slices of fresh tomato.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by a dusting of grated Parmesan.
4. Bake to Perfection
Place the filled zucchini boats into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve
Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and basil leaves.
Serve warm.
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Tips and Substitutions
Here are some expert tips and clever swaps to make this recipe your own:
Tips:
Pre-bake the zucchini for 5–10 minutes if you prefer them softer before stuffing.
Use a melon baller or small spoon to scoop the flesh neatly without tearing the zucchini.
Drain meat well to avoid soggy boats.
Substitutions:
No tomato paste? Use sugar-free marinara or crushed tomatoes.
No mozzarella? Swap for cheddar, provolone, or a mix of Italian cheeses.
Keto-friendly twist: Skip the bell pepper if you’re watching carb counts closely.
Meat-free option: Replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils (not keto, but great for vegetarians).
Read More: Keto Taco Bell Chicken Quesadilla
Recipe Variations
There are so many ways to give these zucchini boats your personal flair:
1. Taco Zucchini Boats
Season the ground beef with taco spices, add salsa, and top with cheddar and sour cream.
2. Italian Sausage Boats
Use hot or sweet Italian sausage with marinara, mozzarella, and extra basil.
3. Caprese Style
Use pesto, fresh mozzarella slices, and cherry tomatoes with a balsamic glaze drizzle.
4. Breakfast Boats
Fill with scrambled eggs, crumbled bacon, and cheese for a keto breakfast option.
Need creative variations that fit your diet and cravings? You’ll love the ideas in the FREE Keto Cookbook—from breakfast to dinner, it’s your new go-to guide.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~380 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 26g |
| Carbohydrates | 9g (Net: 6g) |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Vitamin C | 35% DV |
| Calcium | 25% DV |
| Iron | 18% DV |
Read More: Keto Salmon Patties
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Storage Tips:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze fully baked zucchini boats in a single layer, then store in freezer bags for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until heated through.
Serving Ideas:
Serve with a side of mixed greens, sautéed spinach, or a fresh cucumber salad.
Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a spoonful of Greek yogurt on top.
Pair with keto garlic bread or cauliflower mash for a heartier meal.
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Common Questions
Can I make zucchini boats ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the filling and zucchini ahead. Store them separately, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives or skip the cheese entirely and top with avocado after baking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Bell peppers, eggplant halves, or hollowed-out squash also work great as edible “boats.”
How do I prevent soggy zucchini?
Pre-salt the zucchini halves and let them sit for 10–15 minutes. Then, pat dry before stuffing.
Conclusion
Ground beef zucchini boats are a winning recipe that checks all the boxes—easy, nutritious, flavorful, and adaptable. Whether you’re following a ketogenic lifestyle, exploring low-carb dinners, or just trying something new, these boats are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
They’re perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or impressing friends with minimal effort. And the best part? You can enjoy every bite knowing you’re sticking to your health goals.
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2. Keto Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers
