Loaded Zucchini Skins Recipe

Loaded zucchini skins are hollowed-out zucchini halves filled with a variety of delicious ingredients. Typically, they are loaded with cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, and herbs. You can even make them vegetarian by adding other vegetables or using plant-based cheese.

These zucchini skins are baked until golden and crispy, making them a perfect balance of flavors. They are ideal for a healthy snack, appetizer, or even as a side dish to your main meal.

Why You’ll Love Loaded Zucchini Skins

Loaded zucchini skins are a delicious and healthy twist on a classic comfort food. They are easy to make, full of flavor, and packed with nutrients. Here are some key reasons why you’ll love them:

Low-Carb and Healthy: Zucchini is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a great choice for those following low-carb or keto diets. You get the satisfaction of a crispy, cheesy snack without the extra calories. Loaded zucchini skins are a guilt-free treat that fits into many healthy eating plans.

Gluten-Free Option: For those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, loaded zucchini skins offer a great gluten-free alternative to traditional appetizers. Just make sure to choose gluten-free toppings and ingredients to keep the dish safe for everyone.

Tasty, Crispy Texture: Zucchini skins become delightfully crispy when baked, adding a satisfying crunch. Combined with the creamy cheese or savory toppings, every bite is a perfect balance of textures. You’ll love the contrast of crispy and soft in every mouthful.

Ingredients for Loaded Zucchini Skins

Making loaded zucchini skins is a fun, delicious, and healthier alternative to regular potato skins. These ingredients combine to create a flavorful, hearty dish that can be served as an appetizer, side, or even a snack. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Zucchinis: Zucchinis are the base of this dish. They are mild in flavor, soft, and slightly sweet, making them perfect for creating zucchini skins. You’ll need 2 to 3 medium-sized zucchinis. Cut them in half lengthwise, and scoop out the middle to make room for the filling.
• Cheese: Cheese adds the gooey, melty goodness that everyone loves in loaded skins. A blend of shredded cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or even a mix of both works best. About 1 to 1.5 cups should be enough to top each zucchini skin generously.
• Bacon: Bacon gives these zucchini skins a savory, smoky crunch. You’ll need about 4 to 5 strips of cooked bacon, crumbled into small pieces. This adds texture and a deep flavor that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.
• Cream: Heavy cream or sour cream adds richness to the filling, making it creamy and smooth. About 1/4 cup of heavy cream will be enough to mix with the other ingredients to create a luscious texture.
• Green Onions: Green onions bring a fresh, mild onion flavor to the dish, balancing out the richness of the cheese and cream. You’ll need 2 to 3 green onions, chopped finely. Add these as a garnish for a pop of color and flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is essential for enhancing the flavor of the zucchini skins. It gives a subtle, savory note that complements the bacon and cheese. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for just the right amount of flavor.
• Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness, giving these zucchini skins extra depth. This spice brings a warm, slightly earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the bacon. Add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika to your filling mix.
• Salt and Pepper: Salt and pepper are necessary to bring out all the flavors in the dish. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Adjust to taste depending on your preference.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil is used to drizzle over the zucchini before roasting. This helps the skins crisp up, adding a little extra crunch. About 1 tablespoon of olive oil will be enough to coat the zucchini halves.

How to Make Loaded Zucchini Skins

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious Loaded Zucchini Skins:

• 4 medium zucchinis
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work great)
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for brushing

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Loaded Zucchini Skins:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. Prepare the Zucchini: Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the center, leaving about 1/4-inch of the zucchini flesh around the edges.
3. Brush with Oil: Lightly brush the zucchini halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, sour cream, green onions, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until well mixed.
5. Fill the Zucchini Skins: Spoon the cheese and bacon mixture into the hollowed-out zucchini halves.
6. Bake: Bake the zucchini skins for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are golden and crispy.
7. Serve: Let the zucchini skins cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with extra green onions if desired.

Loaded Zucchini Skins Variation

The beauty of loaded zucchini skins is how easily they can be adapted to your preferences. There are endless variations, and you can mix and match ingredients to create your perfect version. Here are a few tasty variations:

• Cheese Lovers: Add a variety of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a cheesy, gooey filling. Sprinkle extra cheese on top for a golden, crispy finish.
• Vegetarian Style: Skip the meat and load up your zucchini skins with vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and spinach. Add some shredded cheese and top with fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
• Bacon and Sour Cream: Classic bacon and sour cream add richness and flavor. Crispy bacon crumbles on top, paired with a dollop of sour cream, make for a perfect combination.
• Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add some jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce. You can also incorporate spicy sausage or ground beef for an added flavor punch.
• Mediterranean: Use feta cheese, Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil. A sprinkle of oregano will give it that Mediterranean flair.

How to Serve Loaded Zucchini Skins

Loaded zucchini skins can be served in a variety of ways to make your meal more exciting. Here are some serving ideas:

As an Appetizer: Serve them on a platter as finger food for a party or gathering. Pair with a dipping sauce like ranch or a spicy aioli for added flavor.

As a Side Dish: These loaded zucchini skins go great alongside your main course. Serve them with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a well-rounded meal.

For a Quick Snack: They make a delicious and satisfying snack. Enjoy them with a cool drink or as a light bite between meals.

On a Salad: For a creative twist, add a few loaded zucchini skins to a mixed salad. The crispy texture will contrast nicely with the fresh greens.

With a Dip: You can serve them with different dips like guacamole, salsa, or a yogurt-based dip. This adds variety and gives everyone options.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover loaded zucchini skins or want to prepare them in advance, follow these storage tips to keep them fresh:

In the Refrigerator: Store leftover zucchini skins in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If you have cooked zucchini skins with cheese or meat, it’s best to eat them within this timeframe for the best taste and texture.

Reheating: To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. This will help maintain the crispy texture. Alternatively, you can use a toaster oven or air fryer for a quicker option.

Freezing: If you want to store them for longer, freezing is a great option. Place the zucchini skins on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them from frozen at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.

Avoid Storing with Fresh Toppings: It’s best to avoid storing fresh toppings like sour cream or fresh herbs with the zucchini skins. These toppings are best added after reheating to maintain their freshness and texture.

FAQs About Loaded Zucchini Skins