High-Protein Pepperoni Pizza Squash Boats (Low-Carb & Comforting)

This recipe gives serious pizza vibes without the heavy carbs. Roasted squash becomes the perfect bowl for a meaty, cheesy, high-protein pizza filling. It’s filling, family-friendly, and great for meal prep.

Servings & Timing

Servings: 4 (2 squash halves = 4 boats)

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 35–40 minutes

Total Time: ~50 minutes

Ingredients

Base

2 medium spaghetti squash or butternut squash, halved lengthwise, seeds removed

1 tbsp olive oil

½ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

High-Protein Pizza Filling

1 lb lean ground beef or ground turkey (93–99% lean)

½ cup low-sugar marinara or pizza sauce

1 tsp Italian seasoning

½ tsp garlic powder

¼ tsp crushed red pepper (optional)

Toppings

1½ cups shredded mozzarella or part-skim mozzarella

12–16 turkey pepperoni slices (or regular pepperoni)

¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Roast the Squash

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

Brush squash halves with olive oil and season with salt & pepper.

Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast 30–35 minutes, until fork-tender.

Cook the Protein Filling

While squash roasts, heat a skillet over medium heat.

Add ground meat and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

Stir in:

Marinara sauce

Italian seasoning

Garlic powder

Red pepper flakes

Simmer 2–3 minutes until thick and flavorful.

Assemble the Pizza Boats

Flip squash cut-side up.

Scoop out a little center (optional) to make room.

Fill each squash half with the meat mixture.

Top generously with mozzarella, then add pepperoni slices.

Finish with Parmesan if using.

Bake Until Melty

Return to oven and bake 8–10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Broil 1–2 minutes for golden tops if desired.

High-Protein Nutrition (Approx. per serving)

Protein: 35–45g

Carbs: 8–12g net (depends on squash & sauce)

Calories: ~400–450