Taco Zucchini Boats


Hi, I'm Rachelle
The Vivacious Gourmet
I cook delicious healthy recipes that are simple to make, with wholesome fresh ingredients.
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Taco Zucchini Boats: Your New Taco Tuesday Favourite!
Taco Tuesdays just got a delicious makeover with my Taco Zucchini Boats! This super easy recipe is perfect for Cinco de Mayo or any weeknight when you’re craving something filling but light. These zucchini boats are completely gluten-free, packed with flavour, and make a guilt-free alternative to traditional tacos.
By swapping tortillas for zucchini, you get a low-carb base that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Zucchini has a fantastic ability to absorb the bold flavours of the taco seasoning while providing a tender bite. Plus, they make the perfect little “boats” for stuffing with all your favourite taco fixings!
Ingredients & Prep
You’ll be amazed at how few ingredients you need to create this healthy dish. These Taco Zucchini Boats are also great for meal prep or leftovers, so you can enjoy them throughout the week. I love loading mine with spices, and one of my go-to toppings is Don Chilio Chili Crisp Oil. It adds just the right amount of heat and crunch—honestly, you can drizzle it on just about anything!
Give these zucchini boats a try, and I promise, Taco Tuesday will never be the same again! HERE.

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious Taco Zucchini Boats:
- Zucchini – Medium-sized zucchinis are ideal for stuffing, creating the perfect boat shape.
- Shallots or Small Onion – Adds a mild sweetness and depth to the filling.
- Extra Lean Ground Beef – I prefer using lean ground beef to reduce fat, but you can switch it up with half ground beef and half Italian sausage for extra flavour, or opt for ground turkey or chicken.
- Chili Powder – I like to mix my own spices rather than using pre-made taco seasoning to avoid added chemicals.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances the savoury depth of the dish.
- Smoked Paprika – Adds a smoky, warm flavour to the taco filling.
- Sea Salt & Black Pepper – For seasoning.
- Medium or Hot Salsa – Choose your heat level depending on how spicy you like it.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Provides a nice melty texture.
- Cheddar Cheese – Sharp cheddar brings bold flavour, but Monterey Jack is another great option.
Optional Garnishes:
- Sour Cream
- Jalapeños
- Fresh Cilantro
These simple ingredients come together to make a flavour-packed, nutritious meal. Feel free to get creative with the garnishes and spice levels to match your taste!

Taco Zucchini Boats
Ingredients
- 2 large zucchini’s
- 1 shallot or small onion diced
- 1/2 lb of extra lean ground beef
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 cup medium salsa
- 1/2 cup mozzarella
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese
- Garnish: sour cream jalapeños, fresh cilantro, cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut your zucchini’s lengthwise in half and scoop out the middle. Set aside.
- In a pan over medium heat add in olive oil and cook your beef until brown, around 5-6 mins.
- Add in shallots, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, & pepper. Cook for another 5-6 minutes.
- Add in your salsa & cook for two minutes.
- Take beef mixture and fill your zucchini’s. Top with mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Bake in oven for 25-30 minutes or until zucchini is tender.
- Place your toppings on zucchini’s. Add sour cream, jalapeños, salsa, cilantro & @don_chilio Serrano Hot Chili Oil. Eat and enjoy!
If you enjoyed this recipe you might also like to try my Spicy Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats. If you want a pasta alternative, you might also enjoy my Zucchini Roll Ups that taste just like lasagna.

These taste so amazing and my kids actually loved making the fun boats!