Zucchini Pizza Boats are a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional pizza, featuring fresh zucchini halves loaded with savory marinara, gooey melted mozzarella, and your favorite toppings. Baked until bubbly and tender, these veggie-packed boats offer all the classic pizza flavors in a lighter, healthier form. Perfect for weeknight dinners, snacks, or even party appetizers, they’re a fun way to enjoy pizza without the guilt.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These zucchini pizza boats are fast, flexible, and family-approved. Whether you’re looking to reduce carbs, sneak in more vegetables, or satisfy pizza cravings in a wholesome way, this recipe checks every box. You can customize them endlessly with toppings, and they’re naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly. Best of all, they come together in under 30 minutes with minimal prep and clean-up.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- zucchinis
- marinara or pizza sauce
- shredded mozzarella cheese
- grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper
- optional toppings: mini pepperoni, sliced olives, bell peppers, mushrooms, fresh basil
directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the center, creating a shallow boat shape.
- Lightly season each zucchini half with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Spoon marinara or pizza sauce into each boat and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
- Add desired toppings such as mini pepperoni, bell peppers, olives, or mushrooms.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the zucchini is just tender.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve warm.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6 halves
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories per Serving: Approximately 120 kcal
Variations
- Meat Lovers: Add cooked sausage, crumbled bacon, or diced ham for added protein.
- Vegetarian: Load up with mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes, and red onions.
- Spicy: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or add jalapeños for heat.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in provolone, gouda, or a bit of ricotta with the mozzarella.
- Pesto Twist: Swap marinara for pesto for a fresh, herb-forward variation.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes until warmed through. For best texture, avoid freezing, as zucchini tends to become watery when thawed.
FAQs
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the zucchini boats ahead and store them in the fridge. Bake just before serving for the best results.
Do I need to cook the zucchini before baking?
No, the zucchini cooks perfectly in the oven with the filling. Pre-cooking may make it too soft.
What type of zucchini should I use?
Medium-sized zucchini works best—large enough to stuff, but not overly thick or watery.
Can I use store-bought pizza sauce?
Absolutely. Use your favorite jarred pizza or marinara sauce to save time.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and suitable for keto diets when using low-carb sauce and toppings.
How do I prevent the zucchini from becoming too watery?
Avoid overbaking and do not over-scoop the zucchini flesh. A quick 15–18 minute bake keeps them tender, not soggy.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes. They turn out crisp and cheesy.
Are they suitable for kids?
Yes, they’re kid-friendly and a great way to make veggies fun and tasty.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Mozzarella melts beautifully, but you can mix in cheddar, provolone, or feta for variety.
Can I freeze zucchini boats?
It’s not recommended due to the high water content in zucchini, which can lead to a mushy texture when thawed.
Conclusion
Zucchini Pizza Boats offer all the cheesy, saucy satisfaction of pizza in a fresh, low-carb format that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Quick to assemble and endlessly customizable, they’re the perfect weeknight dinner or party snack that both adults and kids will enjoy. Whether you’re looking to lighten up your favorite comfort food or just need a clever way to use up summer zucchini, this recipe delivers big flavor in every bite.
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Zucchini Pizza Boats
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Appetizer / Main / Snack
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Zucchini Pizza Boats are a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional pizza. Loaded with marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella, and your favorite toppings, they’re a gluten-free, veggie-packed dinner or snack that’s easy to make and family-approved. Perfect for weeknights or fun, customizable meals!
Ingredients
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3 medium zucchinis
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1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce
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3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional toppings: mini pepperoni, sliced olives, bell peppers, mushrooms, fresh basil
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Scoop out the center with a spoon, creating shallow “boats.”
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Lightly season each zucchini half with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
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Spoon marinara sauce into each boat and spread evenly.
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Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then add your favorite toppings.
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Bake for 15–18 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly and zucchini is just tender.
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Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Notes
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For extra crispness, broil the last 1–2 minutes.
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Make it vegan with dairy-free cheese alternatives.
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Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light main dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Main / Snack
- Method: Oven-Baked
- Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired
