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
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 280 kcal

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)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Cut the zucchini lengthwise, scoop out the insides, and cut each in half (each zucchini yields 4 skins).
  • 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.
  • Place the zucchini skins on the baking sheet and bake for 5-6 minutes, or until they start to soften.
  • Remove from the oven, sprinkle evenly with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon, then return to the oven for 8 minutes.
  • Turn the oven to a broiler setting and broil for 2 minutes, watching carefully for golden-brown cheese. Remove from the oven.
  • 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!