Cottage Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Cottage Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Boats: A Cheesy, Protein-Packed Veggie Delight

When it comes to easy, healthy, and satisfying meals, stuffed zucchini boats top the list. These Cottage Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Boats are baked until bubbly and golden, bursting with Italian herbs, melty cheese, and creamy cottage cheese. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping for the week, or simply craving something comforting but low-carb, this recipe has you covered.

Loaded with protein and rich flavors, this dish turns humble zucchini into something extraordinary. It’s perfect for vegetarian dinners, keto-friendly lunches, or even as a cheesy side dish that steals the spotlight.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know—from ingredients and preparation to tips, variations, and nutrition.

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Why You’ll Love These Cottage Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Boats

These zucchini boats are more than just delicious—they’re:

• High in protein thanks to cottage cheese and Parmesan.

• Low in carbs, perfect for keto or low-glycemic lifestyles.

• Oven-roasted to golden perfection for a restaurant-worthy presentation.

• Customizable, so you can add your favorite vegetables, herbs, or even protein.

• Quick and easy to make, requiring minimal prep and just one sheet pan.

They’re also a fun way to use up summer zucchini when your garden (or local farmer’s market) is overflowing with this versatile veggie.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

To recreate the rich, cheesy stuffed zucchini boats from the image, gather the following ingredients:

Fresh Produce

• 4 small zucchini, halved lengthwise and hollowed out

• 1 garlic clove, finely minced

Dairy & Cheese

• 1 cup cottage cheese – creamy and high-protein

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – for nutty, savory depth

Oils & Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for brushing and roasting

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme

• Salt and pepper – to taste

Optional:

• Fresh parsley for garnish

• Chopped cherry tomatoes or red peppers for color and sweetness

These simple ingredients come together to create a beautifully textured, flavorful stuffing that complements the tender roasted zucchini.

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How to Make Cottage Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Follow these step-by-step instructions to bake up a tray of golden, bubbly zucchini boats that look just like the photo.

Step 1: Prep Your Zucchini

• Wash and dry your zucchini.

• Slice each zucchini in half lengthwise.

• Using a spoon or melon baller, gently scoop out the centers to form “boats.”

• Place the zucchini halves on a lined baking sheet, cut side up.

• Lightly brush each with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine:

• 1 cup cottage cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1 minced garlic clove

• Salt and pepper to taste

Mix well until everything is evenly combined. This filling will be creamy, savory, and herbaceous—ideal for spooning into the zucchini.

Step 3: Fill and Bake

• Spoon the cottage cheese mixture into each zucchini boat.

• Optional: Top with diced cherry tomatoes or red bell pepper for color and a hint of sweetness.

• Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

• If desired, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes to brown the tops.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

• Let the zucchini boats rest for 5 minutes.

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley or a little more grated Parmesan.

• Serve warm as a main course or side dish.

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Nutrition Breakdown

These zucchini boats are not just delicious—they’re also packed with nutrients. Here’s the approximate nutritional information per serving (2 halves):

• Calories: 220

• Protein: 20g

• Fat: 12g

• Carbohydrates: 14g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 6g

This makes them a great choice for:

• High-protein meal plans

• Low-carb diets

• Diabetics watching their sugar intake

• Anyone focused on nutrient-dense eating

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Tips for the Best Stuffed Zucchini Boats

To ensure your zucchini boats turn out just as golden, bubbly, and irresistible as the image, keep these tips in mind:

Choose the Right Zucchini

• Look for smaller zucchini for better portion control and a higher filling-to-vegetable ratio.

• Avoid overly large or seedy zucchinis as they may become too watery during baking.

Drain Your Cottage Cheese

• If your cottage cheese is very watery, consider draining it slightly using cheesecloth or a fine sieve to prevent soggy boats.

• Alternatively, mix in a spoonful of breadcrumbs or almond flour to absorb excess moisture.

Customize the Cheese Blend

• Add shredded mozzarella for extra meltiness.

• Use feta for a tangier Mediterranean twist.

• Stir in ricotta or cream cheese for added richness.

Make It Spicy or Bold

• Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.

• Sprinkle smoked paprika or cumin for earthy flavor layers.

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Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

These zucchini boats are incredibly versatile. Here are some creative ways to tweak the recipe:

Add Vegetables

• Finely chopped mushrooms, spinach, or kale

• Diced roasted red pepper or sun-dried tomatoes

• Caramelized onions for sweetness

Boost with Protein

• Add cooked shredded chicken or turkey

• Stir in cooked lentils or white beans

• Mix in crumbled tofu for a vegetarian protein punch

Switch Up the Herbs

• Try fresh basil, thyme, or oregano

• Add chives or green onions for freshness

• Finish with a drizzle of pesto for herbaceous flair

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Serving Ideas

These stuffed zucchini boats can be the star of your meal or a hearty side. Here are some pairing suggestions:

As a Main Course:

• Serve with a side of brown rice or quinoa

• Pair with a green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette

• Add a bowl of tomato soup for a cozy combo

As a Side Dish:

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or baked salmon

• Pair with pasta or garlic bread for a filling dinner

• Add to a Mediterranean mezze spread with hummus and olives

No matter how you serve them, they’ll be a hit.

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How to Store and Reheat

Leftovers? No problem. These zucchini boats reheat beautifully and make an excellent meal prep option.

To Store:

• Allow zucchini to cool completely.

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

• Use within 3–4 days for best flavor and texture.

To Reheat:

• Microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through.

• Or reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes to preserve the crispy top.

These boats are even great served cold or at room temperature, especially during warmer months.

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Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

Need a make-ahead dinner option? Try these tips:

Make Ahead:

• Prep the zucchini and filling separately.

• Store each component in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

• Fill and bake when ready to eat.

Freezing:

• While zucchini has high water content and can get mushy when frozen, you can freeze the filling alone in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months.

• Thaw in the refrigerator and use it in fresh zucchini or even as a baked pasta filling.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?

Yes, ricotta works wonderfully as a creamy substitute. It’s slightly thicker and richer than cottage cheese, so your filling will be more decadent.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. As written, this recipe contains no gluten. Just be cautious if you add breadcrumbs or other ingredients.

Can I make it vegan?

To make this dish vegan:

• Swap cottage cheese for a plant-based cottage cheese or blended tofu.

• Use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan.

• Opt for dairy-free mozzarella or skip the cheese entirely and amp up the herbs.

Print

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Final Thoughts: A Simple Yet Stunning Zucchini Recipe

These Cottage Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Boats are everything you want in a comforting yet wholesome dish. Cheesy, herbaceous, and loaded with protein, they hit all the right notes. Best of all, they look just as good as they taste—bubbly, golden, and garnished with fresh herbs, just like the picture.

Whether you’re following a specific diet or just want to eat more veggies in a fun and flavorful way, this dish is a must-try. Simple to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s bound to become a favorite in your rotation.

Give this recipe a try tonight—and don’t forget to share your bubbly, golden zucchini boats on social media for all to admire.