Great for Breakfast, Lunchboxes, or Light Dinner
This Bacon and Vegetable Cheese Slice is a hearty, golden baked dish loaded with flavor from smoky bacon, grated zucchini, carrot, and melted cheese. It’s soft inside, slightly crisp on the edges, and perfect for slicing into portions that can be enjoyed warm or cold.
A classic family favorite—ideal for meal prep or sharing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🥕 Packed With Veggies: Zucchini and carrot add nutrition without overpowering the taste.
- 🧀 Cheesy Goodness: Tasty cheese binds everything together while giving it that comforting richness.
- 🥓 Bacon Flavor Boost: Just enough to give smoky depth without being too heavy.
- ⏱️ Quick & Easy: Mix, press, bake, and slice—ready in under an hour.
- 🍽️ Great for Anytime: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snacks on the go.
Ingredients (Makes 12–16 slices):
For the Base Mixture:
- 100g (¼ cup) butter , chopped (Western Star Original Butter or unsalted butter)
- 1 medium onion , finely chopped
- 4 short-cut bacon rashers , rindless and chopped (about 100g)
For the Veggies & Binding:
- 2 cups grated zucchini , excess moisture squeezed out (about 2 medium zucchinis)
- 1 cup grated carrot (about 1 medium carrot)
- 1½ cups grated tasty cheese (or cheddar/monterey jack)
- ¾ cup self-raising flour (plus extra if needed for texture)
- 5 large eggs , lightly beaten
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Pan
Preheat oven to 180°C (fan-forced) or 350°F (standard) .
Grease and line a 28×18 cm (11×7-inch) rectangular pan with baking paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy lifting.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon & Onion
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter .
Add chopped onion and bacon , then sauté for 4–5 minutes , stirring occasionally until the onions are softened and the bacon begins to brown.
Remove from heat and transfer to a large mixing bowl to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prep the Veggies & Cheese
While the bacon mixture cools:
- Grate zucchini and squeeze out any excess water using a clean kitchen towel.
- Grate carrots and mix with zucchini.
- Grate cheese and set aside.
Step 4: Combine Everything
To the bacon and onion mixture, add:
- Grated zucchini and carrot
- Grated cheese
- Self-raising flour
- Beaten eggs
- A pinch of salt and several grinds of black pepper
Mix gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined.
Tip: If the mixture feels too wet, add 1 tbsp more flour. If too dry, add an extra egg or splash of milk.
Step 5: Spread Into Pan
Spoon the thick batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly using the back of a spoon or spatula.
Smooth the top and ensure it’s about 2 cm (¾ inch) thick .
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes , or until the slice is golden and firm to the touch.
The center should be fully cooked and not wobbly when shaken.
Step 7: Cool Slightly Before Cutting
Let the slice rest in the pan for 10 minutes after removing from the oven.
Then lift it from the pan using the parchment overhang and place on a wire rack to finish cooling.
Once cooled slightly, cut into 12–16 bars or squares .
Tips for Success:
- 🥦 Squeeze Out Moisture: Prevents sogginess by pressing zucchini well before adding.
- 🧁 Make Ahead Magic: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days—great for packed lunches.
- ❄️ Freezer-Friendly: Wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 2 months—reheat in oven or microwave.
- 🥣 Egg Substitute: For lighter version, use ¼ cup applesauce + 2 eggs.
- 🌿 Add Herbs: Stir in fresh parsley, dill, or chives for extra freshness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Great in lunchboxes, alongside salad, or as part of a brunch plate.
- Perfect for school snacks, work lunches, or casual dinners.
Nutritional Information (per slice, makes 16 servings):
(Approximate values – based on regular ingredients)
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Protein: ~7g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fat: ~12g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugar: ~2g
This Bacon & Veggie Cheese Slice is a wholesome, savory baked dish that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Whether you’re serving it warm for breakfast or packing it for lunch—it’s a versatile, delicious way to enjoy veggies and protein in one satisfying bite.
So go ahead and make this today… because once you try it—you’ll find yourself making double batches!
