Zucchini Boats Are the New Bread Bowl (Here’s Why)
Zucchini boats are one of those kitchen wins that check all the boxes…. they’re easy to make, low-cost, and the filling options are basically endless.
Whether you’re working through garden overload or just want to change up dinner without breaking the budget, zucchini boats are a fun and flexible way to do it. From taco night leftovers to pizza-inspired creations, this list has filling ideas that are cheesy, meaty, veggie-packed, and everything in between.
Grab a few zucchinis and let’s get stuffing!
Zucchini Boat Flavor Ideas
Loaded Baked Potato Style
Mashed potatoes get a makeover when stuffed into zucchini boats! Fill each hollowed-out zucchini with creamy mashed potatoes, then top with shredded cheddar, crispy bacon bits, and sliced green onions. Bake until the cheese is melted and golden. It’s like your favorite loaded baked potato but with a veggie twist. Serve it with a salad or even some grilled chicken.
Buffalo Chicken
Turn up the heat with shredded chicken tossed in buffalo sauce, then piled into zucchini halves and sprinkled with mozzarella or blue cheese crumbles. Bake until hot and bubbly, and finish with a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing. It’s bold, zippy, and surprisingly budget-friendly. Serve it with celery sticks, carrot slaw, or roasted potatoes!
Taco Boats
A family favorite! Fill your zucchini boats with seasoned ground beef or turkey, black beans, and a little salsa, then top with shredded cheese. After baking, add your favorite taco toppings—like sour cream, chopped tomato, avocado, or crushed tortilla chips. Serve it with rice, corn on the cobb, or just with a big scoop of guacamole!
Fajita Style
These boats bring all the sizzling skillet flavors without the skillet! Stuff your zucchini with a mix of sautéed onions, bell peppers, and seasoned chicken or steak strips. Sprinkle with cheese (pepper jack is great here!) and bake until melty and tender. Add a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime before serving. Serve with Spanish Rice or a simple corn salad!
Lasagna Boats
All the comfort of lasagna without the pasta! Layer ricotta cheese mixed with Italian herbs inside the zucchini, spoon over your favorite meat sauce, and finish with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan. Bake until bubbly and golden brown. Serve with a Caesar salad and or with garlic breadsticks!
Philly Cheesesteak Boats
Thin-sliced beef (or deli roast beef works too!), sautéed onions, and peppers all snuggled into a zucchini shell, topped with provolone or white American cheese. Bake until everything is hot and gooey! This one’s a low-carb nod to the classic sandwich that still hits all the right notes. Serve with oven fries or a side of coleslaw.
BBQ Pulled Pork
A sweet and smoky favorite! Fill zucchini boats with leftover pulled pork, drizzle with your favorite BBQ sauce, and top with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack. After baking, add a little crunch with coleslaw or pickled onions on top. Serve with baked beans, cornbread, or grilled corn.
Spinach Artichoke
Love the dip? Turn it into dinner! Mix cream cheese, chopped spinach (fresh or frozen), canned or jarred artichoke hearts, and a bit of garlic and parmesan. Stuff the zucchini boats and bake until warm and creamy. This one feels fancy but is super budget friendly. Serve with pasta, roasted chicken, or a big side of garlic bread.
Chili & Cheese
Hearty and comforting! Use leftover chili—canned or homemade—and spoon it into each zucchini. Top with shredded cheese and bake until hot and bubbly. Add green onions, sour cream, or jalapeño slices if you’re feeling extra. Serve with cornbread muffins or tortilla chips for dipping.
Make Zucchini Boats Your Go-To Budget Meal
Zucchini boats are one of those meals that prove you don’t need a lot of money or time to make something fun and filling.
Whether you’re using up leftovers, trying out new flavor combos, or just looking for a way to get more veggies on the table, there’s a boat for every craving.
Try one, try them all, or create your own zucchini boat dinner buffet! Zucchini just got a whole lot more exciting (while staying affordable).
