Do you cook zucchini boats before stuffing?

In a classic 5 Ingredient Recipe for Stuffed Zucchini Boats , you don’t need to cook the zucchini ahead of time. Baking them with the filling gives you the perfect texture—soft, but not soggy. However, if you prefer your zucchini extra tender or are using a no-bake filling, par-baking for 5–8 minutes is a great option.

What goes well with zucchini boats?

Zucchini boats pair well with light, flavorful sides. Think green salads, roasted vegetables, or herbed rice. For sauces, garlic aioli, tzatziki, or spicy yogurt dips complement the flavor beautifully. This makes your 5 Ingredient Recipe for Stuffed Zucchini Boats feel complete without complicating the meal.

How to keep zucchini boats from getting soggy?

To avoid soggy zucchini boats, follow a few key tips: Salt the scooped-out zucchini and let it rest for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Use thicker sauces with less water content. Bake uncovered to let steam escape. Don’t overstuff with wet fillings. These simple adjustments help preserve the structure and integrity of your stuffed zucchini boats .

Do you eat the skin of zucchini boats?

Yes! The skin is completely edible and actually helps the zucchini maintain its shape while baking. Plus, it’s full of fiber and nutrients. In every 5 Ingredient Recipe for Stuffed Zucchini Boats , the skin acts like a natural shell, making the dish both healthy and convenient to serve.

5 Ingredient Recipe for Stuffed Zucchini Boats: The Best Quick & Healthy Meal

Name: 5 Ingredient Recipe for Stuffed Zucchini Boats: Quick, Tasty & Healthy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis; 1 lb ground meat (turkey, beef, or plant-based); 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded cheese; 1 tsp minced garlic

Description

This 5 Ingredient Recipe for Stuffed Zucchini Boats is the ultimate quick and healthy weeknight dinner. Made with fresh zucchini, savory ground meat, marinara, and melty cheese, it’s low-carb, gluten-free, and full of flavor. Perfect for busy home cooks, this easy stuffed zucchini boat recipe comes together in just 35 minutes and is endlessly customizable.

Ingredients

Scale

4 medium zucchinis
1 lb ground meat (turkey, beef, or plant-based)
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded cheese
1 tsp minced garlic

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out centers.
Brown ground meat in a skillet. Add garlic and marinara; simmer 5 minutes.
Fill zucchini boats with mixture. Top with cheese.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes. Broil final 2–3 mins if desired.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute with lentils or mushrooms.

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can be frozen before or after baking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner, Low-Carb
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4