Description
These Sausage Zucchini Boats are a delicious, low-carb main course perfect for a healthy dinner. Hollowed zucchini halves are filled with a savory mixture of Italian sausage, onions, garlic, and marinara sauce, then baked with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
Scale
Zucchini Boats
- 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise and scooped out
Sausage Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the zucchini boats.
- Prepare Zucchinis: Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the center of each zucchini half, leaving about 1/4 inch of flesh to maintain the boat shape. Arrange the zucchini halves cut side up in a baking dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, approximately 6 to 8 minutes.
- Add Sauce and Seasoning: Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Fill Zucchini Boats: Spoon the cooked sausage mixture evenly into each zucchini half, filling the boats completely.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the filled zucchinis.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the zucchini is tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the zucchini boats with freshly chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the sausage for a lighter version.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- These zucchini boats reheat well and make a great low-carb meal prep option.
