Air Fryer Zucchini Pizza Boats

Looking for a tasty low carb twist on pizza that comes together fast These air fryer zucchini pizza boats have become my solution for those nights I want pizza flavor but something a little lighter My kids love loading up their own toppings and I get to sneak in extra veggies without fuss

I first whipped these up during a busy week and now they are a must in our meal rotation The crispy edges and gooey cheese have everyone coming back for seconds

Ingredients

• Zucchini medium size: You want them firm with shiny green skin Seek out evenly sized ones for even cooking
• Pizza sauce: Adds classic pizza flavor Use a thicker sauce so it will not run out of the boats
• Mozzarella cheese shredded: Melts into that irresistible stretchy layer Choose whole milk mozzarella for the best melt and taste
• Favorite pizza toppings: Pepperoni sausage mushrooms peppers Whatever your pizza heart desires Cut them small so they meld right into the cheese
• Freshly cracked black pepper optional: For a little kick Choose a fresh grind for the most flavor

Instructions

Prep the Zucchini:

Wash the zucchini and dry them thoroughly Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise so you get two boats per zucchini Use a spoon or melon baller to carefully scoop out the center flesh just deep enough to make a small well for the fillings

Stuff the Boats:

Spread a generous spoonful of pizza sauce into each hollowed zucchini Press it in so you get coverage to the edges Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top Next add your favorite toppings making sure they are evenly distributed

Arrange in Air Fryer:

Place each stuffed zucchini boat into your air fryer basket Make sure they are in a single layer and not overlapping so the hot air can crisp them evenly

Air Fry Until Tender:

Set your air fryer to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit Cook the zucchini boats for ten to fourteen minutes Check at ten minutes for doneness They are ready when the zucchini is fork tender and the cheese is golden and bubbling

Serve and Enjoy:

Use silicone tongs to carefully lift them out of the basket Serve hot with extra marinara or ranch for dipping if desired

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I have to gush about how creamy mozzarella transforms in the air fryer Melty strings of cheese always make these boats extra special Around here everyone races for the cheesiest one and I always sneak a few extra shreds on top

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers store them in an airtight container in the fridge They will keep for up to three days To reheat pop them back in the air fryer for three to five minutes at three hundred fifty degrees They stay firmer than reheating in the microwave which can make the zucchini soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina if you want a different cheese flavor Vegetarian sausage or mushrooms make a great meat free option If you are out of pizza sauce try pesto for a different twist

Serving Suggestions

Serve these as a light lunch with a simple green salad or as a hearty snack for after school My favorite is serving them alongside a bowl of marinara for dunking At parties they disappear fast when set out with toothpicks

Cultural and Fun Facts

Zucchini is a summer squash that really shines for its mild taste and versatility It is been a kitchen staple across Mediterranean kitchens for ages and is great at taking on any flavors you pair with it Turning zucchini into pizza boats is a clever way to enjoy the best parts of both pizza and vegetables

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These zucchini pizza boats are perfect for weeknights or parties They deliver real pizza flavor with a fraction of the carbs and all the fun

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prepare zucchini for air frying?

Rinse and dry the zucchini, then slice in half lengthwise and scoop out a small well to hold fillings.

→ Can I use different pizza toppings?

Absolutely. Use your favorites like pepperoni, Italian sausage, sliced veggies, or even pineapple and olives.

→ How do I know when zucchini boats are done?

The zucchini should be fork tender and the cheese fully melted and bubbly after air frying.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Assemble the boats ahead, then air fry right before serving for the best texture and flavor.

→ What sauces pair well as dips?

Try marinara, ranch, or even a garlic yogurt sauce for dipping the finished boats.

→ How do I fit larger zucchini in the air fryer?

If needed, cut larger zucchini into quarters so each piece fits comfortably in the basket.