Ingredients
2 medium-large zucchini (about 8–10 inches long, firm)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound lean ground beef or turkey (or plant-based crumble)
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (part-skim)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
1. Wash zucchini, cut in half lengthwise, and scoop out seeds and some flesh to create a boat shape, leaving a 1/4-inch border. Pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add ground beef or turkey, breaking it apart, and cook until no longer pink (5-7 minutes). Drain excess grease.
4. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Spoon filling into zucchini boats, piling generously.
6. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
7. Place stuffed zucchini in air fryer basket in a single layer (cook in batches if needed). Air fry for 10-12 minutes until zucchini is tender-crisp.
8. Remove basket, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. Air fry for another 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
9. Remove, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
For extra crispiness, brush zucchini edges with olive oil before filling. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Adjust cooking time for smaller or larger zucchini. For a dairy-free option, use plant-based cheese alternatives. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-8 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American-Italian
- Diet: Low Carb, Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 zucchini boat halves
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 670
- Fat: 24
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0.3
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 40
- Cholesterol: 95