Go Back

Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats

These Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a healthy, flavor-packed twist on taco night! Fresh zucchini halves are filled with seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, melted cheese, and your favorite taco toppings for an easy, satisfying meal. Perfect for healthy dinner ideas, stuffed zucchini recipes, or keto dinner recipes, this low-carb dinner is ready in just 40 minutes and is sure to become a family favorite.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium zucchini
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound lean ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning or 1 packet
  • ½ cup tomato sauce
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes drained
  • ½ cup black beans drained and rinsed (optional; omit for keto)
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend or cheddar cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional Toppings
  • Sour cream
  • Salsa
  • Diced avocado or guacamole
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Sliced green onions
  • Jalapeño slices
  • Lime wedges

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise. Scoop out the centers with a spoon, leaving about ¼ inch of zucchini around the edges to create sturdy boats.
  3. Brush the zucchini with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper. Arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
  4. Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  6. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess grease if needed.
  7. Stir in the taco seasoning, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and black beans (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes.
  8. Spoon the taco mixture evenly into each zucchini boat.
  9. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.
  10. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  11. Garnish with your favorite toppings and serve immediately.

Notes

  • For a keto-friendly version, simply omit the black beans.
  • Ground turkey or ground chicken can be substituted for lean ground beef.
  • Don't overbake the zucchini—it should be tender but still hold its shape.
  • Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.