keto Pepperoni Pizza Zucchini Boats
Discover the perfect low-carb dinner with our Pepperoni Pizza Zucchini Boats. These deliciously stuffed zucchini boats are filled with a savory blend of Italian sausage, pepperoni, and cheese, all seasoned with pizza spices for an authentic taste. Baked to perfection, they offer a satisfying, keto-friendly alternative to traditional pizza.
Here’s a detailed recipe for making delicious Pepperoni Pizza Zucchini Boats, a keto-friendly twist on classic pizza that’s both flavorful and satisfying!
Pepperoni Pizza Zucchini Boats
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchini
- 1/2 pound hot Italian sausage
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped pepperoni (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (no added sugar)
- 1 teaspoon Flavor God pizza seasoning (or your preferred pizza seasoning blend)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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Instructions:
- Prepare the Zucchini:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the zucchini in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out the center of each zucchini half to create boats, leaving a small border around the edges. Set aside the scooped-out zucchini flesh.
- Cook the Filling:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the hot Italian sausage until fully browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped pepperoni and the reserved zucchini flesh to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, pizza seasoning, and cream cheese. Cook until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and mixed in.
- Stuff the Zucchini Boats:
- Place the zucchini boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a baking dish.
- Spoon the filling mixture into each zucchini boat, pressing down lightly to pack it in.
- Add Toppings:
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each stuffed zucchini boat.
- Arrange a few extra slices of pepperoni on top of the mozzarella cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Allow the zucchini boats to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the filling set and make them easier to eat.
Tips:
- Zucchini Texture: Ensure the zucchini is not too watery by removing as much moisture as possible from the scooped-out flesh before adding it to the filling.
- Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the pizza seasoning and add other favorite pizza toppings or vegetables to the filling mixture.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Enjoy these Pepperoni Pizza Zucchini Boats as a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional pizza, packed with savory flavors and cheesy goodness!