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Easy Cheesy Turkey Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats

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A quick and flavorful low-carb meal featuring lean ground turkey seasoned with taco spices, stuffed into tender zucchini boats and topped with melty cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise and seeds scooped out
  • 1 pound lean ground turkey (93% lean preferred)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper)
  • ½ cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (about 115g)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Wash and halve zucchinis lengthwise. Scoop out seeds and some flesh to create hollow boats about ¼ inch thick. Set aside scooped flesh.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and taco seasoning. Stir in tomato paste and reserved zucchini flesh (chopped finely). Cook 2-3 minutes more.
  5. Optional: Stir in black beans. Remove from heat and squeeze in lime juice, mixing well.
  6. Fill each zucchini boat generously with turkey mixture. Place on baking sheet without overlapping.
  7. Top each boat with about ¼ cup (28g) shredded cheese.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until zucchini is tender but not mushy and cheese is golden and bubbly. Check at 20 minutes to avoid overcooking.
  9. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve warm.

Notes

Do not over-scoop zucchini to prevent collapse. Brown turkey well for flavor. Adjust taco seasoning to taste. Drain excess zucchini liquid before filling to avoid sogginess. For a crispier top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning. Can be cooked in an air fryer at 350°F for about 15 minutes as a faster alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini boats, turkey taco, low-carb, cheesy, stuffed zucchini, healthy dinner, quick meal, taco night

Find it online: https://cravemila.com/easy-cheesy-turkey-taco-stuffed-zucchini-boats-recipe-for-perfect-low-carb-meals/