If you're on the hunt for a delicious, guilt-free dish that combines the wholesome goodness of zucchini with the savory crunch of bacon, look no further! Our Baked Zucchini with Bacon recipe is a mouthwatering delight that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up this cheesy, crispy masterpiece that serves four and is perfect for any occasion—whether as a side dish or a light main course. Trust us, once you try this irresistible combination, it will become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Pat the zucchini slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispier texture.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden brown. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease, then crumble into small pieces once cooled.
- Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Sprinkle the zucchini slices evenly with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to enhance their flavor.
- Distribute the crumbled bacon pieces over the seasoned zucchini slices.
- Generously top the zucchini and bacon with shredded mozzarella cheese, covering most of the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and slightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the cheese to set and the dish to cool slightly.
- Serve hot as a side dish or light main course, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Zucchini: Opt for medium-sized zucchinis, as they tend to have a better texture and flavor compared to larger ones. Look for firm zucchinis with a vibrant green color.
- Pat Dry for Crispiness: After slicing the zucchini, make sure to pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to achieving that perfect crispy texture when baked.
- Cook Bacon to Perfection: For the best flavor, cook your bacon until it's crispy and golden brown. This not only adds a delicious crunch but also infuses the zucchini with that smoky goodness.
- Layering is Key: When arranging the zucchini slices, ensure they are in a single layer without overlapping. This allows for even cooking and helps the zucchini crisp up nicely.
- Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella is a classic choice, feel free to mix it up! Try adding some sharp cheddar or a sprinkle of parmesan for an extra flavor boost.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t forget to garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness that enhances the overall appeal.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot out of the oven when the cheese is melty and the zucchini is tender. If you let it sit too long, the texture may become soggy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
