Loaded zucchini skins are a flavorful snack or appetizer. This recipe transforms fresh zucchini into crispy, cheesy, bacon-filled delights.

Time: 25 min
👥 Servings: 4-6
📊 Level: Easy
🥗 10 ingredients
Loaded Zucchini Skins: Cheesy & Savory Snack! Loaded zucchini skins: whip up these cheesy, bacon-topped zucchini boats in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a satisf

Loaded Zucchini Skins: Cheesy & Savory Snack!

Loaded zucchini skins: whip up these cheesy, bacon-topped zucchini boats in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a satisfying appetizer or a low-carb meal.
Prep Time 7 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

  • 3 medium zucchini
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil
  • rac{3}{4} tsp smoked paprika
  • rac{3}{4} tsp garlic powder
  • rac{1}{2} tsp onion powder
  • rac{1}{2} tsp salt
  • rac{1}{4} tsp pepper
  • 1 rac{1}{2} cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
  • Sour cream and green onions (optional for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cut the zucchini lengthwise, scoop out the insides, and cut each in half (each zucchini yields 4 skins).
  3. In a small bowl, stir together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Brush each zucchini skin with avocado oil, then sprinkle with the seasoning mix.
  4. Place the zucchini skins on the baking sheet and bake for 5-6 minutes, or until they start to soften.
  5. Remove from the oven, sprinkle evenly with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon, then return to the oven for 8 minutes.
  6. Turn the oven to a broiler setting and broil for 2 minutes, watching carefully for golden-brown cheese. Remove from the oven.
  7. Garnish with sour cream and green onions if desired, then serve immediately!

Notes

– For extra crispy bacon, cook it on a separate pan until very crisp before crumbling and adding to the zucchini.
– Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give the zucchini skins space for even cooking and browning. If you overcrowd them, they’ll steam instead of roast.
– If you don’t have avocado oil, olive oil works well too. Just ensure a light coating to help the seasonings adhere and promote browning.
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through to maintain crispness, avoiding the microwave if possible.
Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.

Pro tips

  • For extra crispy bacon, cook it on a separate pan until very crisp before crumbling and adding to the zucchini.
  • Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give the zucchini skins space for even cooking and browning. If you overcrowd them, they’ll steam instead of roast.
  • If you don’t have avocado oil, olive oil works well too. Just ensure a light coating to help the seasonings adhere and promote browning.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through to maintain crispness, avoiding the microwave if possible.

These loaded zucchini skins are a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly spectacular. Give this recipe a try and let us know your favorite toppings!

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