Cheesy Zucchini and Ham Muffins are savory, moist, and perfect for a quick breakfast, brunch, or snack. Packed with the goodness of zucchini, the savory flavors of ham, and the richness of cheese, these muffins are not only delicious but also easy to make. Whether you enjoy them warm out of the oven or as an on-the-go snack, they’re sure to please everyone.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 12 muffins
Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: 1½ cups (190 g)
- Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Zucchini: 1 medium (about 1 cup), grated and squeezed to remove excess moisture
- Ham: ½ cup (75 g), diced
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup (100 g), grated
- Eggs: 2 large
- Milk: ½ cup (120 ml)
- Olive Oil: ¼ cup (60 ml)
- Garlic Powder (optional): ¼ teaspoon
- Black Pepper: To taste
Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder (if using), and black pepper. Mix well.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and olive oil until well combined.
- Combine the Batter:
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the grated zucchini, diced ham, and grated cheddar cheese.
- Fill the Muffin Tin:
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
- Serve alongside scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.
- Enjoy with a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese for extra flavor.
- Pack in lunchboxes as a tasty snack.
- Serve warm with a side of tomato soup for a cozy combination.
5 Cooking Tips
- Remove Moisture from Zucchini: Squeeze the grated zucchini well to avoid soggy muffins.
- Customize the Cheese: Swap cheddar for Parmesan, feta, or a mix of cheeses for different flavors.
- Add Herbs: Mix in fresh or dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives for added freshness.
- Use Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Reheat Before Serving: Warm the muffins slightly in the microwave or oven before serving for the best taste.
Nutritional Benefits
- Zucchini: Low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber.
- Ham: A good source of protein and iron.
- Cheese: Provides calcium and protein for strong bones and muscles.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: No (omit ham or replace with plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian version).
- Gluten-Free: No (use gluten-free flour to make it gluten-free).
- Dairy-Free: No (use dairy-free cheese and plant-based milk for a dairy-free option).
Nutritional Facts (Per Muffin)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual muffins in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy mornings.
- A delicious way to sneak in veggies for kids and adults alike.
- Customizable with your favorite add-ins like herbs, spices, or other cheeses.
- Great for meal prep and make-ahead snacks.
- A savory alternative to sweet muffins for a refreshing change.
Conclusion
Cheesy Zucchini and Ham Muffins are a versatile, savory treat that’s perfect for any time of day. Their combination of soft zucchini, savory ham, and melted cheese makes them both nutritious and delicious. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, snacks, or even a light meal, these muffins are sure to impress with their flavor and ease of preparation.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen zucchini? Yes, but thaw and squeeze out all the excess water before using.
- Can I replace ham with another protein? Yes, cooked bacon, turkey, or plant-based proteins work well.
- Can I make this recipe vegan? Replace eggs with flax eggs, ham with vegan deli slices, and cheese with vegan cheese.
- What other vegetables can I add? Grated carrots, corn, or bell peppers are great additions.
- How do I prevent the muffins from sticking to the pan? Use non-stick muffin liners or grease the tin well with oil or butter.
- Can I make mini muffins? Yes, bake mini muffins for 12-15 minutes at the same temperature.
- What herbs pair well with these muffins? Parsley, thyme, dill, or basil work wonderfully.
- How do I store leftover muffins? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day, or refrigerate for longer storage.
- Can I add a spicy kick? Yes, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes to the batter.
- What dipping sauces go well with these muffins? Serve with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a garlic aioli for dipping.
Enjoy these savory muffins fresh out of the oven or as a quick snack on the go! 🧀🥒✨