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Loaded Zucchini Nachos (“Zachos”)

Loaded zucchini nachos with taco meat, melted cheese, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and creamy drizzle on a parchment-lined sheet pan.

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These loaded zucchini nachos, or “zachos,” are an easy healthy nacho swap made with sliced zucchini, taco meat, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings. They are perfect for a light dinner, snack, appetizer, or fun way to use summer zucchini.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons taco seasoning, divided
  • 1/2 pound ground beef, ground turkey, or ground chicken
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 3/4 cup shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 avocado, diced, optional
  • 2 tablespoons sliced green onions, optional
  • 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced, optional
  • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream, optional
  • Salsa, cilantro, or hot sauce, for serving

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Slice the zucchini into 1/4-inch rounds. Pat the slices dry with a paper towel.
  • Add the zucchini to the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with about 1/2 tablespoon taco seasoning. Toss gently, then spread the slices into a single layer.
  • Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the zucchini begins to soften and lightly brown around the edges.
  • While the zucchini bakes, cook the ground meat in a skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease if needed.
  • Add the remaining taco seasoning and water to the skillet. Stir until the meat is coated and the mixture thickens slightly.
  • Remove the zucchini from the oven. Spoon the taco meat over the zucchini slices, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
  • Return the pan to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
  • Top with diced tomatoes, avocado, green onions, jalapeños, Greek yogurt or sour cream, salsa, cilantro, or hot sauce.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For less soggy zucchini nachos, do not skip the first bake before adding the meat and cheese.
  • Medium zucchini work better than oversized zucchini because they have less water and fewer seeds.
  • For a vegetarian version, replace the taco meat with black beans or a mix of black beans and corn.
  • For extra crunch, add a small handful of crushed tortilla chips over the top before serving.