Keto Pepperoni Zucchini Boats (Print View)

Zucchini boats filled with pepperoni, tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella for a tasty low-carb meal.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 4 medium zucchini
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Sauce and Toppings

04 - 1/2 cup sugar-free tomato or pizza sauce
05 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
06 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
07 - 24 slices pepperoni
08 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil optional

# Method:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Wash zucchini and slice in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out center seeds to create shallow boats, leaving approximately 1/4-inch thick walls.
03 - Brush cut sides of zucchini boats with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
04 - Place zucchini boats cut side up on prepared baking sheet.
05 - Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of tomato sauce into each zucchini half. Sprinkle evenly with Italian herbs.
06 - Top each boat with shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by 3 pepperoni slices per boat, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
07 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until zucchini is tender and cheese is golden and bubbly.
08 - Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Perfect keto-friendly alternative to traditional pizza
  • Ready in just 35 minutes for a quick weeknight dinner
  • Naturally gluten-free and low in carbs (only 4g net carbs per serving)
  • Customizable with your favorite pizza toppings
  • Satisfies pizza cravings without breaking your diet
02 -
  • For the crispiest pepperoni, add it during the last 5 minutes of baking
  • If you prefer softer zucchini, pre-bake the empty boats for 5 minutes before adding toppings
  • Choose smaller zucchinis for better portion control and more tender results
  • Always check labels on tomato sauce and pepperoni for hidden sugars that could affect ketosis
  • For meal prep, prepare the boats but don't bake until ready to serve for the freshest result
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