Zucchini Bacon Bites

Welcome to the ultimate guide for creating a quick, easy, and incredibly versatile Zucchini and Bacon Slice! This savory baked delight is a perfect solution for busy weeknights, effortless meal prep, or a wholesome snack on the go. Whether you’re feeding a family, packing lunches, or simply looking for a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, this recipe for zucchini slice with crispy bacon is designed to impress. Its adaptability means it shines equally well served hot from the oven or enjoyed cold straight from the fridge, making it a true culinary hero for any occasion. Dive into this simple yet satisfying dish that promises flavor, nutrition, and convenience in every bite!

In the realm of effortless home cooking, few dishes offer the remarkable balance of taste, health, and sheer convenience quite like our Zucchini and Bacon Slice. This recipe transforms humble, everyday ingredients into a wholesome meal that can grace your table at any time of day – be it a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a light dinner. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary chameleon, adapting seamlessly to your schedule and preferences.

Beyond its simple preparation, this slice stands out for its incredible versatility. It’s a fantastic dish for meal prepping, allowing you to cook a batch that can last for days, providing quick and healthy options when hunger strikes. Serve it warm alongside a fresh salad, or pack a cold slice into a lunchbox for a fuss-free, delicious midday meal. This recipe builds upon the foundation of a classic Healthy Zucchini Slice, elevating it with the rich flavors of bacon and the added goodness of other vibrant vegetables, making it even more irresistible and nutritious.

Feel free to get creative with this zucchini slice with bacon. It’s wonderfully forgiving and encourages experimentation. Have some extra mushrooms or corn in your fridge? Toss them in! Prefer ham over bacon? That works beautifully too. The core appeal lies in its flexibility, making it an ideal choice for using up whatever fresh produce you have on hand and tailoring it to your family’s tastes.

WHY THIS ZUCCHINI AND BACON SLICE WILL BE YOUR NEW FAVORITE RECIPE

Once you try this Zucchini and Bacon Slice, it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen. Here’s why this recipe consistently earns rave reviews and becomes a go-to for so many:

Effortlessly Easy to Prepare: Don’t let its impressive flavor fool you – this recipe is incredibly straightforward. With minimal chopping and simple mixing steps, you can have this slice ready for the oven in no time, making it perfect for busy weekdays or when you need a quick, no-fuss meal.
Unleash Your Creativity with Versatile Ingredients: This slice is a blank canvas for your culinary imagination. While zucchini and bacon are the stars, you can easily incorporate other vegetables like finely diced bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, sweet corn kernels, or even a handful of fresh spinach. Not a fan of bacon? Swap it for diced ham, shredded chicken, or a vegetarian alternative for a equally delicious outcome.
The Ultimate Meal Prep Solution: Life gets hectic, and having healthy, pre-made meals on hand is a game-changer. This zucchini slice keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 5 days and freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months. Prepare a larger batch on the weekend, and you’ll have wholesome breakfasts, lunches, or dinners ready to go throughout the week.
Delicious Hot or Cold: One of its most appealing attributes is its dual serving potential. Enjoy it warm, fresh from the oven, as a comforting main meal or side dish. Or, let it cool completely and savor it cold, making it ideal for picnics, lunchboxes, or a quick grab-and-go snack.
Kid-Friendly & Family Approved: Packed with hidden vegetables, this savory slice is often a hit even with the pickiest eaters. The familiar flavors of bacon and cheese make it appealing, while the zucchini and carrot blend seamlessly into the texture, providing essential nutrients without any fuss.
Wholesome and Satisfying: Made with fresh vegetables, eggs, and a touch of cheese, this slice offers a balanced meal that is both nutritious and filling. It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting dish that also supports a healthy lifestyle.

ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS FOR YOUR ZUCCHINI AND BACON SLICE

Crafting the perfect Zucchini and Bacon Slice begins with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to adapt it to your pantry and preferences. Don’t feel limited to the vegetables listed here; consider them a starting point for your culinary adventure! Below is a detailed breakdown of the core ingredients you’ll need, along with useful tips for substitutions and variations (full measurements are provided in the comprehensive recipe card below):

Zucchini: The star of the show! Zucchini adds moisture, nutrients, and a subtle earthy flavor. Its mild taste makes it an excellent vehicle for other ingredients.
Carrot: Shredded carrot introduces a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, boosting the nutritional content and adding textural interest.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the aromatics and contributing to the richness of the slice. A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall flavor.
Brown Onion: Finely diced brown onion provides a foundational aromatic base, adding depth and savory notes once caramelized.
Bacon Slices / Rashers: Crispy, diced bacon brings a delightful smoky, salty flavor and a satisfying texture that truly elevates the slice. Choose your favorite cut – streaky or back bacon work equally well.
Red Capsicum / Red Bell Pepper: Adds a burst of sweet, vibrant flavor and a beautiful pop of color. Feel free to use yellow or green bell pepper for variation.
Eggs: The binding agent! Eggs are crucial for holding all the ingredients together, creating that classic slice consistency. Use large eggs for best results.
Milk: A touch of milk adds moisture and helps create a tender, creamy texture in the baked slice. Any type of dairy or non-dairy milk can be used.
Self-Raising Flour: This provides the structure and a slight lift to the slice. If you don’t have self-raising flour on hand, it’s incredibly easy to make your own substitute. Simply combine 1 cup of plain or all-purpose flour with 2 teaspoons of baking powder.
Grated Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a wonderfully sharp, salty, and savory flavor, binding the ingredients and creating a delicious golden crust. Feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like mozzarella, Colby, or a mixed cheese blend.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors. Adjust to your taste preference.

THE SECRET TO A PERFECT SLICE: MASTERING ZUCCHINI DRAINAGE

One of the most common pitfalls when baking with zucchini is ending up with a watery, soggy mess. Zucchini is naturally high in moisture, and if not properly drained, it can release excess liquid into your batter, leading to a less-than-ideal texture. But fear not! Achieving a perfectly firm and flavorful Zucchini and Bacon Slice is simple with this essential step. Don’t let soggy zucchini ruin your culinary creations again; follow these easy techniques for a consistently delicious result:

Grate and Salt: Start by grating your zucchini (and carrot, if using) into a colander. Sprinkle a generous pinch of salt over the grated vegetables. The salt draws out moisture through osmosis. Let this sit for approximately 10 minutes. You’ll notice liquid beginning to accumulate at the bottom of the colander.
Squeeze It Out: Once the 10 minutes are up, transfer the grated zucchini (and carrot) to a clean kitchen towel or a few layers of paper towels. Gather the edges of the towel and twist firmly, wringing out as much liquid as possible over the sink. Alternatively, you can grab handfuls of the grated zucchini and squeeze firmly with your hands, transferring the squeezed vegetables to a separate bowl as you go.

Expert Tip: For this specific Zucchini and Bacon Slice recipe, you don’t need to be overly aggressive with your draining. A good, firm wring will suffice. A little residual moisture is perfectly acceptable and won’t negatively impact the final texture or flavor of this robust slice. This step is crucial for preventing a “gummy” or “waterlogged” slice, ensuring your final product is firm, flavorful, and holds its shape beautifully.

HOW TO MAKE ZUCCHINI AND BACON SLICE: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

Creating this delicious Zucchini and Bacon Slice is a straightforward process that yields incredibly satisfying results. Follow these simple steps to bring this versatile dish to life in your kitchen:

Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C / 350°F. Line a square baking dish (approximately 9 x 9 inches or 23 x 23 cm) with baking paper, ensuring some overhang on the sides for easy removal of the baked slice.
Drain the Zucchini and Carrot: Grate both the zucchini and carrot into a colander. Sprinkle them with a little salt and allow them to sit for 10 minutes. This crucial step draws out excess moisture, preventing your slice from becoming soggy.

Sauté Bacon and Onion: While the zucchini and carrot are draining, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the diced brown onion and bacon. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion is softened and translucent, and the bacon is golden and slightly crispy. Remove the pan from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Once the zucchini and carrot have rested, use your hands to vigorously squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. Transfer the well-drained vegetables to a large mixing bowl. Add the diced capsicum (bell pepper), the cooled onion and bacon mixture, 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese, and the self-raising flour. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.

Add Eggs and Liquids: In a separate small bowl, lightly whisk the eggs with the milk and the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour this egg mixture into the large mixing bowl with the vegetable and bacon mixture. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the flour is fully incorporated, forming a cohesive batter. Be careful not to overmix.

Bake to Perfection: Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking tray and use a spatula to smooth the top evenly. Sprinkle the reserved ¼ cup of grated cheese over the surface. Transfer the tray to the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the slice is golden brown on top, cooked through, and feels firm to the touch when gently pressed in the center.

Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and allow the Zucchini and Bacon Slice to cool in the tray for at least 15-20 minutes before attempting to cut it. This cooling period allows the slice to set and makes it easier to cut into neat squares without crumbling. Once cooled enough to handle, lift it out of the tray using the baking paper overhang, cut into squares, and serve!

STORAGE AND REHEATING MADE SIMPLE

One of the many benefits of this Zucchini and Bacon Slice is its fantastic make-ahead and storage capabilities. Whether you’re planning for lunches throughout the week or want to save some for a quick meal later, here’s how to properly store and reheat your delicious slice:

How to Store Your Zucchini and Bacon Slice:

In the Refrigerator: Once your slice has completely cooled to room temperature, cut it into individual portions or leave it whole, as preferred. Place it in an airtight container. Stored this way, the slice will remain fresh and delicious in the fridge for approximately 5 days. This makes it perfect for grabbing a piece for breakfast, lunch, or a snack.
In the Freezer: For longer storage, this slice freezes exceptionally well. Again, ensure it’s fully cooled. You can freeze it as a whole block or cut into individual servings for ultimate convenience. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bags. This method will keep your Zucchini and Bacon Slice fresh for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat Your Zucchini and Bacon Slice:

From the Refrigerator:
- Microwave: For a quick reheat, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through. The texture will be slightly softer.
- Oven/Toaster Oven: For a crispier exterior, reheat in a preheated oven or toaster oven at 150°C (300°F) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
From the Freezer:
- Thawing: To defrost, simply transfer the frozen slice to the refrigerator overnight. It will be ready to reheat or eat cold the next day.
- Reheating (after thawing): Follow the refrigerator reheating instructions above.
- Reheating from Frozen (optional): While best thawed first, you can sometimes reheat directly from frozen in a moderate oven (around 160°C/325°F) for 15-25 minutes, covering loosely with foil if it starts to brown too much. This method might result in a slightly softer texture.
Enjoying Cold: Many (including me!) find this slice absolutely delicious served cold. It’s a fantastic option for lunchboxes, picnics, or a quick snack without any reheating necessary.

EXPERT TIPS FOR A FLAWLESS ZUCCHINI AND BACON SLICE

While this Zucchini and Bacon Slice recipe is forgiving and simple, a few expert tips can elevate your results from good to absolutely outstanding. Pay attention to these details to ensure a perfect, flavorful, and structurally sound slice every time:

The Flour Factor: This recipe calls for self-raising flour to give the slice its ideal light and airy texture. If your pantry is bare of self-raising flour, don’t fret! You can easily create your own by mixing 1 cup of plain (all-purpose) flour with 2 teaspoons of baking powder. Ensure the baking powder is fresh for optimal leavening.
Crucial Zucchini Drainage (Reiterated for Emphasis!): This is arguably the most important step to avoid a soggy slice. Zucchini contains a lot of water, which will release during baking if not properly removed. Grate your zucchini and carrot together, then place them in a colander and sprinkle with salt. After 10 minutes, transfer to a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and wring out as much liquid as humanly possible. A dry base guarantees a firm, delightful texture.
Embrace Vegetable Versatility: This recipe is a fantastic way to clear out your fridge! Feel free to incorporate any other vegetables you have on hand. Sautéed mushrooms, sweet corn kernels, finely chopped spinach (also squeezed dry), or even grated sweet potato would be wonderful additions. Aim for about 1/2 to 1 cup of extra vegetables to maintain the balance of the batter.
Bacon Alternatives: If bacon isn’t your preference, or you’re looking for a different flavor profile, easily swap it out. Diced ham is a popular and delicious alternative. If using ham, you can skip the frying step entirely and simply add the diced ham and onion directly into the mixing bowl with the other ingredients. Cooked shredded chicken or even crumbled sausage can also work.
Don’t Overmix: Once all the ingredients are in the bowl, mix only until just combined. Overmixing the batter can develop the gluten in the flour too much, leading to a tough rather than tender slice.
Check for Doneness: The slice should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch. You can also insert a skewer or toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Ovens vary, so keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time.
Cooling is Key: Resist the urge to cut into the slice immediately after it comes out of the oven. Allowing it to cool in the tray for at least 15-20 minutes lets it set completely, preventing it from crumbling when sliced and making for perfectly neat portions.

DELICIOUS COMPLEMENTS AND VARIATIONS

This Zucchini and Bacon Slice is not only a fantastic dish on its own but also serves as an excellent foundation for creativity in the kitchen. Here are some ideas to complement your slice or inspire new variations:

Serving Suggestions:

As a Main Meal: Serve warm with a fresh garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. It’s a complete and satisfying meal!
Brunch or Breakfast: A slice pairs wonderfully with a side of avocado or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Lunchbox Hero: Enjoy it cold as a convenient and healthy packed lunch.
Party Appetizer: Cut into smaller, bite-sized squares and serve on a platter for an easy and crowd-pleasing snack.
With Soup: A warm slice makes an excellent accompaniment to a bowl of hearty soup, adding substance and flavor.

Creative Variations:

Cheesy Twist: Experiment with different cheeses! A blend of cheddar and mozzarella for stretchiness, or some crumbled feta for a salty tang, can add new dimensions of flavor.
Herbaceous Freshness: Stir in fresh herbs like chopped chives, parsley, dill, or thyme with the wet ingredients for an aromatic boost.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a subtle kick. Smoked paprika can also enhance the savory flavors.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon entirely for a wholesome vegetarian zucchini slice. You could add smoked paprika or nutritional yeast for a cheesy, savory depth.
Gluten-Free Friendly: For those with gluten sensitivities, substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free self-raising flour blend (or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with baking powder). Always check that other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Mediterranean Flair: Add sun-dried tomatoes, black olives, and a sprinkle of dried oregano to the mixture for a taste of the Mediterranean.

Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own. It’s robust enough to handle various additions and substitutions, encouraging you to explore new flavor combinations and adapt it to whatever ingredients you have readily available.

MORE DELIGHTFUL ZUCCHINI RECIPES FOR ZUCCHINI ENTHUSIASTS

If you find yourself with an abundance of zucchini or simply can’t get enough of this versatile vegetable, here are more fantastic recipes to inspire your cooking adventures:

Classic Zucchini Fritters: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside – a perfect snack or side.
Hearty Vegetarian Quiche: A delicious and versatile meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Wholesome Gluten-Free Zucchini Fritters: Enjoy all the flavor without the gluten in these easy-to-make fritters.
Savory Zucchini and Halloumi Fritters: The salty chewiness of halloumi meets fresh zucchini in a winning combination.
OR explore all our Dinner Recipes for more inspiring meal ideas that are sure to please!

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📋 RECIPE: Zucchini and Bacon Slice

Zucchini and Bacon Slice

Yield: 9 slices

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

This quick, easy, and healthy Zucchini and Bacon Slice is incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for meal prepping a batch for the week and can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Great served hot or cold, it’s also an excellent addition to kids’ lunch boxes.

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 117 reviews.

Ingredients

2 Zucchini, grated
1 Carrot, grated
2 tablespoon Olive Oil, divided
1 Brown / Yellow Onion, diced
2 Bacon Slices / Rashers, diced
½ Red Capsicum / Bell Pepper, diced
5 Eggs, lightly whisked
¼ cup Milk
1 cup Self-Raising Flour
1 ¼ cup Grated Cheddar Cheese, divided (1 cup for mixture, ¼ cup for topping)
Salt and Pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F. Line a square (9 x 9 in / 23 x 23 cm) baking dish with baking paper, allowing for an overhang on the sides.
Grate zucchini and carrot into a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a frying pan on medium heat. Add diced onion and bacon and cook, stirring regularly, until golden. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Using your hands, squeeze as much excess moisture out of the zucchini and carrot as possible. Place the squeezed vegetables in a large mixing bowl with the diced capsicum/bell pepper, cooled onion and bacon, 1 cup of grated cheese, and the self-raising flour. Stir to combine.
Add the lightly whisked eggs, milk, remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Stir until all ingredients are well combined and a cohesive batter forms.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking tray and smooth the top evenly. Sprinkle the reserved ¼ cup of cheese over the top.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until cooked through, golden brown, and firm to the touch.
Allow the slice to cool in the tray for at least 15-20 minutes before lifting out, cutting into squares, and serving.

Notes

Flour Substitute: If you don’t have self-raising flour, combine 1 cup plain/all-purpose flour with 2 teaspoons baking powder.
Storage: Store cooled slice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Tips: Ensure you drain excess moisture from zucchini to prevent a soggy slice. Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or corn. Ham can be used instead of bacon (skip frying step).

Nutrition Information:

Amount Per Serving (approx.):

Calories: 194
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Sugar: 2g