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Zucchini Meatball Subs topped with melted cheese and fresh herbs on a toasted bun

Zucchini Meatball Subs

Delicious zucchini halves filled with savory Italian sausage meatballs, tangy spaghetti sauce, and melty provolone for a low-carb alternative to traditional subs.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 3 medium zucchinis Halved and hollowed
  • 1 pound Italian beef sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed) Can substitute turkey or chicken for a lighter option
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 6 slices provolone cheese (each slice cut in half) For a total of 12 halves
  • 1 cup keto-friendly spaghetti sauce Can use store-bought or homemade

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • Trim zucchini ends and slice each in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out seeds and flesh to create a cavity for meatballs.

Make Meatballs

  • In a large bowl, combine Italian beef sausage, grated Parmesan, and the egg. Mix until just incorporated.
  • Shape the mixture into 24 small, uniform meatballs (about 1–1¼ inches) and place them on the second baking sheet.

Bake

  • Bake both pans at 400°F for 16–18 minutes. Meatballs are done when their internal temperature reaches 165°F; the zucchini should be fork-tender.

Assembly

  • While baking, warm the spaghetti sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
  • Once out of the oven, use a paper towel to blot any pooled liquid in each zucchini boat. Spoon about a tablespoon of sauce into each boat.
  • Add four meatballs per boat, top with another spoonful of sauce, and place two provolone halves over each.

Finish

  • Return the assembled boats to the oven for 2–4 minutes, just until the cheese melts. Serve hot.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–12 minutes or microwave for 60–90 seconds until heated through. For freezing, meatballs should be frozen unassembled.
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Keto, Low-Carb, Zucchini Meatball Subs