Pin Imagine the perfect union of creamy cheese and savory bacon, all wrapped around tender zucchini. These Keto Bacon-Wrapped Zucchini Boats offer the ultimate low-carb comfort food experience without compromising on flavor or satisfaction. The herb-infused cheese filling melts into the zucchini as it bakes, while the bacon crisps to perfection, creating a dish that's as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Pin These bacon-wrapped zucchini boats have become a staple in my household, especially during summer when zucchini is abundant. The combination of crispy bacon and melted cheese creates an irresistible texture contrast that elevates this humble vegetable to gourmet status. And the best part? It all comes together in less than an hour!
- 2 large zucchini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 120 g (4 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 60 g (2 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 30 g (1 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 slices streaky bacon
- Prepare the oven and zucchini
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Wash and dry the zucchini. Slice each zucchini lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the center, creating boats. Brush the cut sides with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Create the cheese filling
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, parsley, chives, Italian herbs, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.
- Fill the zucchini
- Fill each zucchini boat with the cheese mixture, spreading evenly.
- Wrap with bacon
- Carefully wrap each stuffed zucchini half with 1–2 slices of bacon, tucking the ends underneath.
- Arrange and bake
- Arrange the boats on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and the zucchini is tender.
- Serve
- Let cool slightly before serving.
For perfectly crisp bacon, you can pre-cook the bacon strips for about 2 minutes before wrapping them around the zucchini boats. This gives them a head start without overcooking the zucchini. If you prefer a spicier dish, add some red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture or even some finely diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
This versatile recipe welcomes many variations. Try using yellow summer squash instead of zucchini for a different color and slightly sweeter flavor. For a Mediterranean twist, add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes and olives to the cheese mixture. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations—smoked gouda adds a wonderful depth of flavor, while a bit of blue cheese creates a more complex taste profile.
These bacon-wrapped zucchini boats make an impressive main dish when paired with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. For a heartier meal, serve alongside cauliflower rice or roasted mushrooms. They also work beautifully as an appetizer when made with smaller zucchini and cut into bite-sized portions after baking.
Pin These Keto Bacon-Wrapped Zucchini Boats have become my go-to recipe when entertaining friends on low-carb diets or when I simply crave something indulgent yet nutritious. With just 5g of carbs per serving, they fit perfectly into a ketogenic lifestyle while still feeling like a special treat. The combination of crispy bacon, tender zucchini, and creamy, herb-infused cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Recipe Questions
- → What type of cheese is used for the filling?
The filling combines cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan for a creamy, flavorful blend.
- → How do you prepare the zucchini for stuffing?
Slice zucchini lengthwise, scoop out the center to create boats, then brush with olive oil and season before filling.
- → Can I use different herbs in the filling?
Yes, fresh parsley and chives are typical, but basil or dill can be substituted for varied flavor.
- → How long should the bacon-wrapped zucchini bake?
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until bacon is crisp and zucchini is tender and cooked through.
- → Is this dish suitable for low-carb diets?
Yes, it is designed as a low-carb, keto-friendly dish featuring zucchini and bacon.