Delicious Zucchini Boats stuffed with a blend of crispy bacon, sweet corn, and creamy cheese. A perfect mix of textures and tastes!
Servings : 8serves
Prep Time 10 minutesmins
Cook Time 20 minutesmins
Total Time 30 minutesmins
Ingredients
water,for boiling
4mediumzucchini
8slicesbacon
1can (15 ounces)sweet corn,drained, you can also use (thawed) frozen corn
2clovesgarlic,minced
salt and fresh ground black pepperto taste
1package (8 ounces)cream cheese,softened
Instructions
Drop the zucchini in a large pot of boiling water. Cook for 5 minutes or until fork tender; drain and rinse with cold water.
Cut the zucchini in half, lengthwise; scoop out the seeds and flesh, about 1/2-inch deep, and set aside.
Cook the bacon in a frying pan to a crisp; with a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with a paper towel, leaving bacon fat in the pan.
Add corn and garlic to the frying pan; season with salt and pepper and cook for 3 minutes or until heated through and slightly browned.
Stir in the cream cheese and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined.
Crumble the bacon and mix it into the cream cheese mixture. Remove the pan from the heat.
Stuff the cheesy mixture into the zucchini boats. Transfer the zucchini to a baking sheet and broil for 8 minutes or until the tops are lightly browned.
Remove from oven and let stand a couple of minutes before serving.
Choose Firm Zucchini: Pick zucchini that are firm to touch; they hold up better when stuffed.
Scoop Carefully: Ensure you don't pierce through the zucchini when hollowing.
Drain Excess Moisture: After boiling the zucchini, pat them dry to prevent a soggy result.
Customize Fillings: Feel free to add or swap ingredients in the stuffing based on preference. I almost always use Neufchatel cheese instead of cream cheese for a lighter take.
Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is soft and at room temperature. Soft cream cheese ensures a smooth and even blend, preventing lumps when mixed with other ingredients.
Use a Broiler for a Golden Top: A few minutes under the broiler can give the boats a crispy finish.
Serve Warm: These boats are best enjoyed warm, bringing out the richness of the cheese and bacon.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Nutritional info is an estimate and provided as courtesy. Values may vary according to the ingredients and tools used. Please use your preferred nutritional calculator for more detailed info.
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: side dish, zucchini boats, zucchini recipes