Meatball Zucchini Boats: A Healthy and Delicious Twist on Classic Meatballs

🍽️ Cheesy Meatball-Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Juicy homemade meatballs nestled in tender zucchini boats, smothered in marinara and melted cheese? Yes, please. This easy, satisfying dish is perfect for low-carb lovers, weeknight warriors, or anyone craving cozy Italian flavors with a fresh twist.

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🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Zucchini Boats:

• 3–4 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise

• 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken)

• ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley, plus more for garnish

• 1 large egg

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 1 Tbsp vegetable oil (for searing)

To Finish:

• 2 cups marinara sauce (sugar-free if keto)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan

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🔪 Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Zucchini:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Scoop out the insides of each zucchini half to create boats. Place in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until just tender.

2️⃣ Make the Meatballs:
In a bowl, mix together ground meat, parsley, egg, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
Form into 24 small meatballs.

3️⃣ Sear the Meatballs:
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add meatballs and sear until browned and crispy, about 2 minutes per side.

4️⃣ Simmer in Sauce:
Pour marinara over the meatballs, stir gently, and let simmer for 10 minutes, until cooked through and flavorful.

5️⃣ Assemble & Broil:
Spoon meatballs and sauce into each zucchini boat. Top with mozzarella.
Broil on high for 3–5 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbling.

6️⃣ Garnish & Serve:
Sprinkle with Parmesan and extra parsley before serving. Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite.

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💡 Tips & Variations

• Keto-friendly: Use sugar-free marinara and skip any breadcrumb fillers in the meatballs.

• Make it spicy: Add more crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara.

• Meal prep win: These reheat beautifully and stay flavorful for up to 4 days in the fridge.