Dinner

Zucchini Pizza Boats: A Healthy and Fun Twist on Pizza Recipe

Name: Zucchini Pizza Boats: A Healthy and Fun Twist on Pizza Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489464H8M42S
Total time: PT-489464H8M42S
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 medium zucchinis; 1 cup marinara sauce (or pizza sauce); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (or other toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional); Sliced black olives; Diced bell peppers; Cooked sausage or ground beef; Fresh spinach; Grated Parmesan cheese

Byanna orden October 18, 2025October 18, 2025

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Introduction

Zucchini Pizza Boats are a delicious and healthy twist on traditional pizza. These easy-to-make boats are loaded with marinara, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings, all nestled inside tender zucchini. Perfect for a quick dinner or a fun snack that everyone will love.

Four zucchini halves cut lengthwise serve as the base, each filled with a melted layer of creamy white cheese mixed with small bits of green herbs. On top of the cheese layer, several round, red mini pepperoni slices are evenly spaced, some showing a slight crispiness from baking. The edges of the cheese layer are golden brown with a bubbly texture. The zucchinis are placed closely together on a dark wooden board, showing their green skin and softer pale green interior beneath the toppings. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 medium zucchinis
1 cup marinara sauce (or pizza sauce)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup pepperoni slices (or other toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Optional toppings:
- Sliced black olives
- Diced bell peppers
- Cooked sausage or ground beef
- Fresh spinach
- Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the center of each zucchini half, leaving about 1/4 inch of flesh to create a boat shape. Save the scooped-out zucchini for another use like smoothies or stir-fries.
Step 2: Lightly sprinkle the inside of each zucchini boat with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.
Step 3: Spoon marinara sauce into each zucchini boat, filling them generously. Top the sauce with shredded mozzarella cheese and your choice of toppings such as pepperoni, olives, or bell peppers.
Step 4: Place the filled zucchini boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Try using different cheeses like cheddar or a blend for varied flavor.
For a vegetarian option, replace pepperoni with diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives.
Adding cooked sausage or ground beef can make it more filling.
Use fresh herbs like oregano or thyme to enhance the taste.
To reduce moisture, sprinkle the zucchini boats with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes before filling, then pat dry.

Storage

Store leftover zucchini pizza boats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to keep the zucchini tender and the cheese melty. Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Four zucchini boats lie side by side on a dark wooden board, each cut lengthwise with a green outer skin and hollowed center filled with layered toppings. The base layer is melted white and golden cheese that looks gooey and slightly browned. On top, small round red pepperoni slices are evenly spaced along the length of each zucchini, with hints of herbs sprinkled within the cheese. The zucchini edges frame the colorful mix, showing bright green and a moist texture. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make zucchini pizza boats ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and assemble them ahead, then cover and refrigerate before baking. Bake fresh when ready to serve for the best texture.

Can I freeze zucchini pizza boats?

Freezing is possible but not ideal, as zucchini can become watery. If freezing, bake first, then cool completely before freezing. Reheat thoroughly before eating.