Cheesy Zucchini and Bacon Slice

This Cheesy Zucchini and Bacon Slice is the perfect blend of savory and creamy flavors, with crispy bacon, tender zucchini, and gooey cheddar cheese baked into a golden perfection. It’s an easy-to-make dish ideal for breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature for a delightful treat everyone will love.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients (Cups and Grams)

  • Zucchini: 2 medium (about 400 g), grated
  • Bacon: 1 cup (200 g), chopped
  • Onion: 1 small, finely diced
  • Eggs: 5 large
  • Self-Raising Flour: 1 cup (150 g)
  • Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup (100 g), grated
  • Olive Oil: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon

Directions

  1. Prepare the Zucchini
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
    • Grate the zucchini, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and let it sit for 5 minutes to release excess moisture. Squeeze out the liquid with a clean kitchen towel.
  2. Cook the Bacon and Onion
    • In a pan, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
    • Sauté diced onion in the same pan until soft and translucent.
  3. Mix the Batter
    • In a large bowl, beat the eggs until fluffy.
    • Add self-raising flour and whisk until smooth.
    • Stir in grated cheese, olive oil, cooked bacon, sautéed onion, and zucchini.
    • Season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  4. Bake the Slice
    • Line an 8×12-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease lightly.
    • Pour the mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
    • Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden and set.
  5. Serve
    • Let the slice cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
  • Add a dollop of sour cream or tomato relish.
  • Perfect as a portable snack or lunchbox treat.

Cooking Tips

  • Swap bacon for diced ham, smoked turkey, or sausage.
  • Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives for extra flavor.
  • For a gluten-free version, use almond flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Zucchini: Low in calories, rich in vitamins C and A.
  • Bacon: Provides protein and savory depth.
  • Eggs: High-quality protein with essential nutrients like B12 and D.

Dietary Information

  • Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.
  • Suitable for low-carb diets if flour is replaced with almond flour.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sodium: 310 mg

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in a microwave or oven until warm.
  • Freeze slices for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple and quick to prepare.
  • Perfect for meal prep and lunchboxes.
  • Packed with protein and veggies for a balanced meal.
  • Easily adaptable for gluten-free or vegetarian diets.

Conclusion
This Cheesy Zucchini and Bacon Slice is a versatile, satisfying, and nutritious dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. Its rich flavors and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe for busy weekdays or lazy weekends. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or a snack, it delivers a delightful bite every time. Try it today and experience the magic of this savory slice!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use regular flour instead of self-raising flour?
    Yes, use all-purpose flour with 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder.
  2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
    Yes, omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes.
  3. Can I freeze this dish?
    Absolutely! Freeze slices in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
  4. How do I prevent the slice from being soggy?
    Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated zucchini before mixing.
  5. What other cheeses can I use?
    You can use mozzarella, Parmesan, or a mix of cheeses for a unique flavor.
  6. Can I add more vegetables?
    Yes, bell peppers, carrots, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition.
  7. Is this dish keto-friendly?
    Replace self-raising flour with almond flour to make it keto-friendly.
  8. What can I serve with this slice?
    Serve with a side salad, soup, or a light dressing for a complete meal.
  9. Can I make it dairy-free?
    Use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based milk alternative if required.
  10. Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?
    Yes, prepare the mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.