Keto Smash Burger Zucchini Boats with Special Sauce

About This Recipe

All the cheeseburger flavor you crave—no bun required. These keto smash burger zucchini boats are stuffed with seasoned 80/20 beef, melted sharp cheddar, and a drizzly sugar-free special sauce. One pan, minimal prep, and ultra satisfying for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchini
• 1 lb (450 g) 80/20 ground beef
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp finely minced onion
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1–2 tbsp sugar-free ketchup
• 1 tsp yellow mustard
• 1 tsp pickle brine (from the jar)
• 2–3 tbsp chopped dill pickles, divided
• Olive oil or avocado oil, for brushing
• 1 tsp kosher salt, divided
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
• Shredded lettuce, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve 4 medium zucchini lengthwise and scoop out the centers to create boats (reserve some flesh for another use). Brush with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and pre‑bake on a lined sheet pan for 10–12 minutes until just tender.
2. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add 1 lb (450 g) 80/20 ground beef and 2 tbsp finely minced onion. Season with 1 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder. Cook, breaking up, until browned and little moisture remains, 5–6 minutes.
3. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar and half of the chopped dill pickles; toss to melt and combine, then remove from heat.
4. Fill the par-baked zucchini boats with the beef mixture, mounding slightly. Top evenly with remaining cheddar.
5. Return to the oven and bake 8–10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and zucchini is tender but not mushy.
6. Make the special sauce: In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1–2 tbsp sugar-free ketchup, 1 tsp yellow mustard, 1 tsp pickle brine, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Thin with a splash of water if needed for drizzling.
7. Drizzle the warm boats generously with special sauce. Scatter over remaining chopped pickles and a pinch of sesame seeds (optional).
8. Serve immediately. For extra crunch, add shredded lettuce on the side (optional).

Keto Focus

Bunless burger swap using low-carb zucchini boats; high-fat 80/20 beef and a mayo-based, sugar-free sauce keep carbs minimal while boosting satiety.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 600
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 48g
• Carbs: 11g
• Fiber: 2.5g
• Net Carbs: 8.5g

Tips & Variations

• Cheese swap: Use American or pepper jack for a classic burger vibe or a little heat.
• Add-ins: Bacon crumbles, sautéed mushrooms, or jalapeños take it over the top while staying low carb.
• Air fryer method: Par-bake zucchini at 375°F, stuff and air-fry 5–7 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
• Dairy-free option: Use a creamy mayo-based sauce only and swap cheddar for a dairy-free melt (or omit cheese).
• Make it halal: Choose halal-certified ground beef and condiments.
• Meal prep: Bake, cool, and store up to 4 days. Reheat at 350°F until warmed through; sauce after reheating.
• Serve with: Shredded lettuce, extra pickles, and a few tomato wedges for a burger “plate” feel without the bun.