Ground turkey and zucchini pizza boats

Ground turkey and zucchini pizza boats feature fresh, hollowed zucchini halves filled with a savory turkey and pasta sauce mixture, topped with mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. This low-carb dish is a delicious way to enjoy pizza flavors in a lighter form, perfect for dinner or as an appetizer.

07 Feb 2026
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1/2 lb ground turkey
6 zucchini
1 tbsp olive oil
1 garlic clove
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper
1 cup pasta sauce
1.50 cups mozzarella cheese
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tsp dried oregano
Ground turkey and zucchini pizza boats

Ground turkey and zucchini pizza boats are a healthy and delicious twist on traditional pizza. This recipe replaces the usual pizza crust with fresh zucchini, making it a low-carb option that's packed with flavor. Perfect for a nutritious dinner or a fun appetizer, these pizza boats are sure to be a hit!

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Zucchini:
- Wash the zucchini and cut each one in half lengthwise.
- Using a spoon, scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh to create "boats". Be careful not to scoop too much and break the skins.
3. Cook Ground Turkey:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add ground turkey, season with a dash of salt and black pepper, and cook until browned. Stir occasionally to break up the meat, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients:
- Once the turkey is cooked, add the pasta sauce to the skillet.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.
- Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Assemble Pizza Boats:
- Arrange the zucchini boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spoon the turkey and sauce mixture evenly into each zucchini boat.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over each boat.
- Top with grated parmesan cheese.
6. Bake:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Season and Serve:
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 teaspoon of dried oregano over the baked zucchini boats.
- Serve hot and enjoy!

Ground turkey and zucchini pizza boats are a delightful and health-conscious alternative to conventional pizza. Whether you're looking to reduce carbs or just add more vegetables to your diet, this recipe offers a flavorful and satisfying meal. Enjoy the combination of savory ground turkey, gooey cheese, and tender zucchini, and feel good about the nutritious ingredients!

Ground turkey and zucchini pizza boats FAQ:

What is the baking time for zucchini pizza boats?

Bake the zucchini pizza boats in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

How can I tell when the ground turkey is fully cooked?

Ground turkey is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The meat should no longer be pink in the center and should be firm to the touch.

Can I substitute the ground turkey with another meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, lean beef, or even plant-based meat alternatives, depending on your dietary preferences.

How should I store leftover zucchini pizza boats?

Store any leftover zucchini pizza boats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

What size zucchini should I use for the pizza boats?

Medium to large zucchini are ideal for pizza boats. They should be firm and not overly small, as larger zucchini can hold more filling and provide better structure.

Tips:

- Choose medium to large zucchini for easier stuffing and better presentation.

- Cook the ground turkey thoroughly until it's no longer pink to ensure it's safe to eat.

- For additional flavor, consider adding some chopped onions or bell peppers to the ground turkey mixture.

- You can customize the pasta sauce with your favorite herbs or spices for a unique taste.

- Broil the zucchini pizza boats for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to get a nice, bubbly cheese topping.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 330kcal
Protein 33g
Carbohydrates 14g
Fiber 3.59g
Sugar 9g
Fat 20g

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