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Savory Keto Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Zucchini Boats

keto philly cheesesteak stuffed zucchini boats - featured image

A low-carb, keto-friendly twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, using zucchini boats as a natural vessel for a juicy, cheesy beef filling. Quick, easy, and delicious comfort food without the bread.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium zucchinis (about 67 inches long, halved lengthwise and scooped out to create boats)
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (85% lean recommended)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • 34 oz (85-115g) provolone cheese, sliced or shredded
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of Italian seasoning or dried oregano (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Slice 3 medium zucchinis lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and some flesh using a spoon, leaving a sturdy shell about 1/4 inch thick. Set aside the scooped flesh for the filling.
  3. Place zucchini boats on a paper towel-lined plate and sprinkle lightly with salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry.
  4. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onion and diced green bell pepper (if using). Cook slowly for 8-10 minutes until soft and caramelized, stirring often. Add minced garlic in the last 2 minutes.
  5. Push veggies to the side, add ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until no pink remains, about 6-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Stir in reserved chopped zucchini flesh and cook for 2 more minutes.
  6. Place zucchini shells on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the beef mixture evenly into each shell, packing gently.
  7. Top each boat with slices or shredded provolone cheese.
  8. Roast in the oven for 15-18 minutes until zucchini is tender and cheese is melted and bubbling.
  9. Let the boats cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Salting and drying the zucchini boats before filling prevents sogginess. Caramelize onions slowly for best flavor. Tent with foil if cheese browns too quickly. Rest boats 5 minutes before serving. For dairy-free, substitute provolone with vegan cheese. Oven reheating preferred over microwave to avoid sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: keto, low-carb, Philly cheesesteak, zucchini boats, stuffed zucchini, keto dinner, easy recipe, gluten-free, dairy-free option