This classic Australian Zucchini Slice is beloved for its simplicity, versatility, and rich savory flavor. With tender zucchini, crispy bacon, and melty cheese in every bite, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser whether served warm from the oven or cold from the fridge.
Ideal for everything from breakfast to dinner, or packed into lunchboxes, this slice holds its own as a wholesome, satisfying meal. You can also customize it with added veggies or turn it vegetarian by omitting the bacon. It’s a staple recipe for busy families, casual brunches, or meal prep days.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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5 medium zucchinis, grated
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1 large onion, finely chopped
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200g bacon, diced
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1 cup self-raising flour
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1 cup grated cheese (cheddar works great)
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1/2 cup vegetable oil
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5 eggs, lightly beaten
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and line a non-stick lamington or rectangular baking tin.
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In a large bowl, combine grated zucchini, chopped onion, diced bacon, flour, and cheese.
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Add oil and eggs to the bowl and mix until well combined. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
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Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared tin.
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Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden and set.
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Let cool slightly before cutting into squares or slices. Serve warm or cold.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 320 kcal per slice | Servings: 8
Why It’s a Staple in Australian Kitchens
One of the key reasons the Zucchini Bacon Slice is so loved in Australian households is because of its practicality. It’s made in one bowl, baked in one tray, and cuts beautifully into neat slices that hold together without crumbling. This makes it ideal for on-the-go meals, whether for school lunchboxes, office meal preps, or road trip snacks.
Moreover, it’s a fantastic way to use up an abundance of zucchinis — especially during summer when this vegetable is in peak season. Many home gardeners find themselves overrun with zucchinis, and this slice is a perfect solution. Even kids who might turn their noses up at vegetables tend to enjoy the slice’s cheesy, savory flavor profile.
The Perfect Meal Prep Option
When it comes to meal prep, the Zucchini Bacon Slice ticks all the boxes. It stores well in both the fridge and freezer, maintaining its texture and flavor after reheating. You can batch-cook a tray on Sunday and have breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner sorted for several days.
Additionally, it’s highly portable. Unlike dishes that require plating or utensils, this slice is finger-friendly. Simply wrap it in baking paper or place it in a container, and you have a mess-free, ready-to-eat meal.
Versatility: The Real Magic of This Dish
At the heart of this recipe’s enduring popularity is its adaptability. The base ingredients create a reliable foundation, but it’s incredibly easy to customize the slice based on what you have in the fridge.
Vegetarians can leave out the bacon or replace it with mushrooms, corn, grated carrot, or baby spinach. You could swap the cheddar for feta or parmesan for a stronger flavor. Adding a pinch of curry powder, herbs like dill or parsley, or even a bit of garlic powder can completely change the flavor profile without any added complexity.
This flexibility makes it a go-to for using up leftovers, reducing food waste, and making something wholesome without an extra trip to the grocery store.
Serving Suggestions
Zucchini Bacon Slice is a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with sides. A fresh garden salad with lemon vinaigrette, a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, or even a light soup on the side turns it into a full lunch or dinner.
It also makes an excellent brunch or breakfast option. Serve it with avocado slices, grilled tomatoes, or poached eggs for a more substantial plate. For entertaining, cut it into small squares and serve as finger food at parties or gatherings.
Some people even enjoy it with a splash of hot sauce or chutney on top — the contrast between the creamy filling and a bit of spice or tang adds a lovely dimension.
Nutritional Value and Health Benefits
Nutritionally, the Zucchini Bacon Slice offers a balanced combination of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Zucchini is low in calories but high in beneficial nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. It also contains antioxidants that support a healthy immune system and reduce inflammation.
Bacon provides a hit of savory protein, though for those watching their saturated fat intake, leaner substitutes like turkey bacon or skipping it altogether can make the dish lighter. Eggs contribute high-quality protein and are rich in choline, which supports brain function.
Using wholemeal flour or adding extra veggies can also boost the fiber content, making it a more filling option for those looking to maintain steady energy throughout the day.
Kid-Friendly and Picky-Eater Approved
For parents, the Zucchini Bacon Slice is often a lifesaver. Many children who refuse to eat their vegetables won’t blink an eye when it’s hidden in a cheesy, savory slice. The texture is soft but not mushy, and the familiar flavors of cheese and bacon make it highly appealing.
You can also sneak in other finely grated or chopped vegetables without changing the flavor too drastically — making it a stealthy, stress-free way to add nutrition to your child’s diet.
Storage and Freezing Tips
To store the slice, let it cool completely after baking, then wrap individual portions in foil or plastic wrap. These can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the wrapped portions and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in a 160°C oven until heated through. The slice maintains its moisture well and doesn’t dry out easily, making it one of the best meal-prep items to freeze and reheat.
Cultural Relevance and Legacy
In Australia, the Zucchini Slice holds nostalgic value. Many people remember their parents or grandparents baking it as a weekly staple. It’s often passed down through generations with slight variations depending on household taste and traditions.
It also frequently appears in community cookbooks, school canteens, and even on the menus of casual cafés. This longevity speaks to its popularity and versatility — it’s not just a recipe but a part of the domestic culinary landscape.
Conclusion
The Zucchini Bacon Slice is much more than a simple oven-baked dish — it’s a celebration of ease, economy, and deliciousness. It encapsulates what makes home cooking so special: the ability to feed a family with love, using accessible ingredients, without stress or mess. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or branch out with your own creative twists, this savory slice is sure to earn a permanent place in your kitchen.
From weeknight dinners to lunchbox saviors, from potlucks to picnic staples, the Zucchini Bacon Slice is the kind of recipe that just works — every time. It’s comfort food at its best: warm, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable.
Let it be your go-to recipe when you need something quick, tasty, and universally loved.