If you’re looking for a simple, healthy dinner that’s full of flavor and comes together in no time, these Pizza Zucchini Boats in the Air Fryer are perfect for you. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle, looking for a new keto-friendly recipe, or just need something quick and delicious, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s a fun way to sneak some veggies onto the dinner table without anyone complaining!
Zucchini has become one of my go-to ingredients, especially when I want something versatile and easy to cook. From zucchini noodles to stuffed zucchini recipes, the possibilities are endless. But these zucchini boats? They might just be my favorite way to use this underrated vegetable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Thanks to the air fryer, these zucchini boats cook up in under 15 minutes.
- Healthy and Low-Carb: Perfect for keto, lean and green meals, or anyone cutting back on carbs.
- Customizable: You can add whatever pizza toppings you love!
- Kid-Friendly: Who doesn’t love pizza? This is a great way to get picky eaters to eat their veggies.
I promise, once you try this recipe, it will become a regular part of your dinner rotation.
Ingredients for Pizza Zucchini Boats
Here’s what you’ll need for this quick and tasty recipe:
- 2 medium zucchini (cut in half lengthwise)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup mini pepperoni slices (or chopped regular pepperoni)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Optional toppings: sliced black olives, mushrooms, diced bell peppers, cooked sausage, or anything else you love on pizza!
Pro Tip:
If you’re following a keto or low-carb diet, make sure to use a low-sugar pizza sauce. You can also sprinkle on extra Parmesan for added flavor without extra carbs.
How to Make Pizza Zucchini Boats in the Air Fryer
This recipe comes together in just a few steps. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Prep the Zucchini
Start by washing your zucchini and cutting them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and create a little “boat” shape. Don’t scoop out too much—you still want a good amount of zucchini to hold your toppings.
Brush the inside of each zucchini half with olive oil and sprinkle with a little salt and pepper. This helps the zucchini cook up nicely and gives it great flavor.
Step 2: Pre-Cook the Zucchini
Place the zucchini halves in your air fryer basket, cut side up. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This softens the zucchini just enough so it’s tender but still holds its shape.
Step 3: Add the Toppings
After pre-cooking, spoon a bit of pizza sauce into each zucchini boat. Don’t go overboard with the sauce—a little goes a long way!
Next, sprinkle on the mozzarella cheese, add the pepperoni slices, and top with a pinch of Italian seasoning. If you’re adding any extra toppings (like mushrooms or olives), now’s the time to pile them on.
Step 4: Air Fry Until Cheesy and Golden
Place the zucchini boats back in the air fryer and cook at 350°F (175°C) for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to make sure the cheese doesn’t burn.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Carefully remove the zucchini boats from the air fryer (they’ll be hot!) and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Serve them warm and enjoy!
Why Air Fryer Recipes are a Game-Changer
I don’t know about you, but my air fryer has become my best friend in the kitchen. It’s perfect for making quick meals, especially when I don’t want to turn on the oven or spend hours cooking. Plus, air frying gives these zucchini boats that perfect mix of tender zucchini and crispy, cheesy toppings.
If you’re following a meal plan like Optavia, THM (Trim Healthy Mama), or keto, air fryer recipes like this one are a lifesaver. They’re quick, healthy, and delicious—and let’s be honest, anything that saves time is a win in my book.
Tips for Perfect Zucchini Boats
- Don’t Over-Scoop: Be gentle when scooping out the zucchini. If you scoop out too much, they can collapse when cooking.
- Use Fresh Zucchini: Smaller, firm zucchini work best for this recipe. Avoid overly large zucchini, as they can be watery.
- Don’t Skip Pre-Cooking: Pre-cooking the zucchini helps them soften just enough and makes the final dish perfect.
- Customize Your Toppings: These zucchini boats are like mini pizzas—add whatever toppings your family loves!
Perfect for Low-Carb and Keto Lifestyles
These Air Fryer Zucchini Boats are a dream for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet. They’re loaded with flavor, low in carbs, and packed with nutrients from the zucchini. Plus, they’re a great option if you’re looking for a quick dinner or a satisfying snack.
If you’re into lean and green recipes or following bariatric meal plans, this recipe is an excellent choice. It’s healthy, filling, and feels like a treat—without the guilt!
Pairing Ideas
These zucchini boats are filling on their own, but if you’re looking for a little something extra, try pairing them with:
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
- Cauliflower rice for a low-carb side dish
- Grilled chicken for added protein
Final Thoughts
There you have it—a simple, healthy, and absolutely delicious recipe for Pizza Zucchini Boats in the Air Fryer. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, follow a low-carb lifestyle, or just want an easy dinner recipe, these zucchini boats are the answer.
Give them a try, and I promise they’ll become a family favorite. Let me know what toppings you use—I’m always looking for new ways to jazz up this recipe!
Happy cooking!
Pizza Zucchini Boats in the Air Fryer Recipe
Ingredients
2 medium zucchini (cut in half lengthwise)
1/2 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1/4 cup mini pepperoni slices (or chopped regular pepperoni)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Optional toppings: sliced black olives, mushrooms, diced bell peppers, cooked sausage, or anything else you love on pizza.
Instructions
Prep the Zucchini
- Wash the zucchini and cut them in half lengthwise.
- Use a spoon to gently scoop out the seeds, creating a shallow “boat.” Be careful not to scoop too much.
- Brush the inside of each zucchini half with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Pre-Cook the Zucchini
- Place the zucchini halves into the air fryer basket, cut side up.
- Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to soften them slightly.
Add the Pizza Toppings
- Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce onto each zucchini boat.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
- Add mini pepperoni slices and any additional toppings (like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives).
- Sprinkle with Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Air Fry Until Golden
- Return the zucchini boats to the air fryer.
- Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy
- Carefully remove the zucchini boats from the air fryer.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan, fresh basil, or red pepper flakes, if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!
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