Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It is low-carb, high-protein, quick to prepare, customizable, naturally gluten-free, and packed with the nostalgic flavors of a classic tuna melt while remaining light and wholesome.
Print
Low Carb Tuna Melt Zucchini Boats: A Light, Satisfying Twist on a Classic Favorite
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A low-carb twist on a classic tuna melt—zucchini boats stuffed with a creamy tuna mixture, topped with melted cheese, and baked until bubbly and golden.
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 stalk celery, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup pickles or relish (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Slice zucchinis in half lengthwise. Scoop out the centers to form boats, leaving a 1/4-inch border.
- Place zucchini halves on the baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes to soften slightly.
- In a bowl, mix tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, celery, red onion, pickles or relish, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon tuna mixture into each zucchini boat.
- Top generously with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option.
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra spice.
- Try topping with tomato slices before baking for added freshness.
- Use drained canned chicken as an alternative protein.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Zucchini
Forms the low-carb “boat,” offering a tender yet firm base that holds the filling and adds mild, fresh flavor.
Canned tuna
Provides hearty, protein-rich filling with the classic tuna melt taste you expect.
Mayonnaise
Creates creaminess and binds the tuna mixture for a rich, melt-like texture.
Celery
Adds crunch and balance to the smooth tuna filling.
Onion
Brings mild sharpness and depth to the tuna mixture.
Garlic powder
Enhances overall savory flavor and complements the cheese topping.
Dijon mustard
Adds subtle tanginess that brightens the creamy tuna mixture.
Cheddar or mozzarella cheese
Melts beautifully over the tuna boats and gives that iconic tuna melt finish.
Salt and black pepper
Essential for seasoning the filling and enhancing flavor throughout.
Directions
Preheat your oven and prepare a baking dish. Slice each zucchini lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon to create boat-shaped centers. Lightly season the inside and place the zucchini halves in the baking dish. Bake briefly to soften them slightly while you prepare the filling.
In a mixing bowl, combine drained tuna with mayonnaise, diced celery, onion, garlic powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined. Remove the zucchini from the oven and spoon the tuna mixture evenly into each boat, pressing gently to fill the hollows.
Top each zucchini boat with shredded cheddar or mozzarella. Return the dish to the oven and bake until the cheese melts and the zucchini becomes tender. For an extra bubbly finish, switch to broil for the final minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
Serves 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: about 35 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture—microwaving works but may soften the zucchini more than desired. Freezing is not recommended due to the water content of zucchini.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Tuna Melt Boats
Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the filling.
Italian-Inspired Boats
Use mozzarella and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
Avocado Tuna Mix
Replace part of the mayonnaise with mashed avocado for a creamy, nutrient-dense twist.
Greek Style
Mix in feta, olives, and lemon zest for a Mediterranean version.
Chipotle Tuna Boats
Add chipotle mayo or chipotle peppers in adobo for smoky heat.
Low-Carb “Pizza” Tuna Boats
Top with marinara and mozzarella before baking for a pizza-like twist.
Crunchy Topping
Add crushed pork rinds or grated Parmesan for a crisp finish.
Herb-Lover’s Option
Stir fresh dill, parsley, or chives into the filling.
Extra Protein Boost
Add chopped hard-boiled eggs to the tuna mixture.
Zesty Lemon Upgrade
Finish with fresh lemon juice for brightness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of tuna?
Yes, canned chicken works perfectly.
Do I need to pre-bake the zucchini?
Yes, it ensures tenderness without overbaking the filling.
Can I use light mayonnaise?
Absolutely, it still provides creaminess.
Must I remove the zucchini seeds?
Removing them creates space for the filling and improves texture.
What type of tuna works best?
Chunk light or solid albacore both work well.
Can I make these ahead?
Prep the boats and filling separately, then assemble before baking.
Are these good for meal prep?
Yes, they store and reheat nicely.
Can I use different cheese?
Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack all melt well.
How do I prevent watery zucchini?
Lightly salt the zucchini before pre-baking to draw moisture out.
Do I need to remove the zucchini skin?
No, the skin helps the boats hold their shape.
Conclusion
Low Carb Tuna Melt Zucchini Boats combine creamy tuna filling, melted cheese, and tender zucchini for a satisfying and wholesome dish that delivers comfort without the carbs. Easy to customize, quick to prepare, and ideal for meal prep, these boats offer a lighter alternative to the classic tuna melt without sacrificing flavor. Whether enjoyed for lunch or dinner, they bring balanced richness and freshness to your table in every bite.
Looking for more tasty recipes? Visit our website for full details and follow us on Pinterest for daily food ideas to save and share