There’s something truly comforting about a golden-baked slice that marries the juicy crunch of bacon with the tender freshness of zucchini, all bound together by a cloud of cheddar cheese and fluffy eggs. This Zucchini and Bacon Slice is that very creation—a warm, savory wedge of goodness that feels rustic yet utterly satisfying. As you lift the first piece from the tray, the gentle scent of caramelized onion drifts up to greet you, promising layers of taste in every bite. It’s perfect for those afternoons when you crave something hearty without the fuss of a complex recipe, and it sneaks in a generous serving of vegetables alongside the rich, smoky flavor of bacon.
I first stumbled across this slice on a lazy Sunday, craving a dish that felt like home. Grating zucchini by hand, tossing it with sharp cheese, and hearing the sizzle of diced bacon in the pan before it all went into the oven—it was pure comfort. Once baked to a beautiful golden brown, each square offered a symphony of textures: that slight chew from the zucchini, the crisp edges of bacon, and a tender, moist crumb all around. Whether you’re packing it for a picnic, slicing it up for lunchboxes, or simply serving it as an appetizer at a casual gathering, this slice never fails to draw smiles. It’s an easy, beginner-friendly recipe that rewards you with a crowd-pleasing result every single time.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN ZUCCHINI AND BACON SLICE
Before we head into the kitchen, let’s break down the stars of this recipe. Each ingredient plays a distinct role, building layers of flavor, texture, and that irresistible golden crust. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Zucchini
Adds moisture, a tender bite, and a subtle vegetal sweetness. Grated zucchini melds seamlessly into the batter, keeping the slice soft without weighing it down—just be sure to drain it well.
- Onion
Delivers a hint of natural sweetness and depth. Finely chopped onion softens in the bake, enriching every forkful with savory undertones that complement both the zucchini and bacon.
- Self-Raising Flour
Provides structure and lift, creating a light, cake-like texture. The built-in rising agent helps the slice puff up ever so slightly, achieving a tender crumb that holds its shape.
- Cheddar Cheese
Brings gooey richness and sharp, tangy flavor. Grated cheddar melts into pockets of molten goodness, weaving creamy threads through the zucchini and bacon.
- Bacon
Infuses smoky savoriness and a crisp bite. Diced bacon disperses throughout the mix, adding pops of salty crunch that contrast beautifully with the softer elements.
- Eggs
Act as a binding agent, unifying all ingredients into a cohesive batter. They also contribute to the slice’s golden hue and provide a rich, custardy texture.
- Olive Oil
Keeps the slice moist and tender. Its fruity, mellow taste enhances the overall mouthfeel without overpowering the other flavors.
- Salt and Pepper
Season and elevate every component. A simple seasoning duo that ensures each ingredient shines in perfect harmony.
HOW TO MAKE ZUCCHINI AND BACON SLICE
Let’s bring these ingredients together in a few simple steps. With minimal hands-on time and straightforward techniques, you’ll soon have a sizzling slice ready to impress friends and family.
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Allowing it to reach the right temperature ensures an even bake and that satisfying golden crust.
2. Grease and line a baking dish with parchment paper. This step prevents sticking and makes it easy to lift out the entire slice once it’s cooked.
3. In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini and finely chopped onion. Use a spatula to ensure they’re evenly dispersed before moving on.
4. Squeeze out the excess moisture from the zucchini using your hands or a clean tea towel. This critical move keeps the slice from becoming soggy and helps achieve a tender yet sturdy texture.
5. Add the self-raising flour to the zucchini mixture, tossing gently to coat every shred. The flour will absorb any residual liquid and give structure to the slice.
6. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and diced bacon until they’re well distributed, creating pockets of flavor throughout the mix.
7. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs together with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. The vigorous whisking incorporates air, which contributes to a lighter bake.
8. Pour the egg mixture over the zucchini mixture and mix thoroughly with a spatula, making sure every ingredient is coated and the batter is uniform.
9. Transfer the combined mixture to the prepared baking dish, using the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to spread it evenly from corner to corner.
10. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Allow the slice to cool slightly in the pan. This resting time helps it firm up, making it easier to cut neat, tidy squares.
12. Serve warm or at room temperature, giving the flavors a chance to mingle further as it cools. Each piece is ready to enjoy on its own or alongside your favorite dips and sides.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR ZUCCHINI AND BACON SLICE
When it comes to serving this slice, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, packing a picnic basket, or simply looking for a quick weekday lunch, the way you present each square can elevate the entire experience. Its flexible temperature profile—delicious hot, warm, or cold—means you can plan ahead and serve it exactly how you like. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Picnic Perfect
Pack the slice in an airtight container with a few sprigs of fresh herbs (like parsley or dill) on the side. The cooler weather actually enhances its flavor, making it a standout treat outdoors.
- Brunch Centerpiece
Arrange squares on a wooden board alongside cream cheese or a zesty garlic aioli. Add a handful of cherry tomatoes and olives for color, turning this simple slice into the star of a leisurely spread.
- Lunchbox Winner
Slip two or three squares into a lunchbox with a crisp garden salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The slice holds up beautifully and stays moist, offering a satisfying midday meal.
- Snack or Appetizer
Cut the slice into bite-sized cubes and thread them onto small skewers with grape tomatoes and basil leaves. Serve on a platter at parties for an easy-to-grab, flavor-packed nibble.
HOW TO STORE ZUCCHINI AND BACON SLICE
After enjoying a few slices, you might be left with a delicious remainder. Proper storage will keep this dish fresh and tasty for days. Since it contains moist ingredients and cheese, attention to airtight sealing and temperature control is key. Here’s how to maintain peak flavor and texture:
- Refrigeration for Short-Term Freshness
Place cooled slices in a sealed container with a piece of parchment between layers to prevent sticking. Stored this way, they’ll stay fresh for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to revive the golden crust.
- Freezer-Friendly Portions
For longer storage, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and then tuck them into a freezer bag. Frozen slices can last up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Room-Temperature Holding
If you plan to serve the slice within 4–6 hours, keep it covered on the counter away from direct sunlight. A clean dish towel draped lightly over the platter is sufficient to protect from dust.
- Reviving Crispness
To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven crunch, reheat slices in a preheated skillet or oven at 160°C (320°F) for 5–7 minutes. This method helps restore the texture without drying out the interior.
CONCLUSION
From the first moment you whisk together eggs and olive oil to the satisfying pop of color when you slice into that golden crust, the Zucchini and Bacon Slice is a celebration of simple ingredients made extraordinary. Throughout this article, we’ve explored the essential components: the tender zucchini, sweet onion, cheesy richness, and smoky bacon, all held together by a fluffy, self-raising flour base. We walked through each step in detail—preheating the oven, draining excess moisture, folding in cheese and bacon, and the all-important resting period that ensures neat, firm slices. Beyond the bake, we shared serving suggestions that range from picnic classics to playful party skewers, along with storage tips designed to keep your leftovers as delightful as the first cut.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later—tuck it into your recipe binder or snap a photo on your phone to have it on hand whenever the craving strikes. Below, you’ll find an FAQ section to answer any last-minute questions you might have. And if you give this slice a whirl, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Drop a comment, share your tweaks, or ask for help with any step. Happy baking, and here’s to many more delicious slices in your kitchen!
Zucchini and Bacon Slice
Description
This Zucchini and Bacon Slice is a fantastic blend of savory bacon, fresh zucchini, and gooey cheddar. Perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or a tasty snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
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Grease and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini and chopped onion.
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Squeeze out the excess moisture from the zucchini using your hands or a tea towel.
-
Add the self-raising flour to the zucchini mixture, tossing to combine.
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Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and diced bacon.
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In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with the olive oil, salt, and pepper.
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Pour the egg mixture over the zucchini mixture and mix thoroughly.
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Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until golden and set.
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Allow the slice to cool slightly before cutting it into squares.
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Serve warm or at room temperature.
Note
- This slice is versatile and can be served hot or cold.
- It's a great lunchbox option and perfect for picnics.
- You can substitute bacon with ham or omit it for a vegetarian version.
- Add herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor.
- Ensure zucchini is well-drained to prevent a soggy slice.
