Crispy Bacon & Zucchini Cream Bake
This delightful Crispy Bacon & Zucchini Cream Bake is a cherished family recipe that has been enjoyed at countless family gatherings, especially alongside comforting roasts. The dish balances the savory flavors of crispy bacon and sweet, tender zucchini, all enveloped in a creamy, herb-infused sauce. Prepared effortlessly in the microwave, it comes together in a flash, making it the perfect side for any occasion. Freshly grated parmesan cheese adds a touch of rich flavor, while the dried basil brings a lovely aromatic finish. It's an easy yet impressive dish that will surely become a staple in your kitchen!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Zucchini
3-4 medium (sliced)
Onion
1 medium (diced)
Bacon
4-5 slices (diced)
Cream
1/2 cup (none)
Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons (freshly grated)
Dried basil
1-1 1/2 tablespoons (none)
Instructions
1
Start by dicing the bacon and onion. Place them together in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Microwave on high for 5 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the onion is translucent.
2
While the bacon and onion are cooking, slice the zucchini at a diagonal, aiming for approximately 1 cm thickness. Once the bacon and onion are ready, layer the zucchini on top of them in the dish.
3
Cover the dish again and microwave for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the zucchini to soften slightly.
4
In a separate bowl, mix together the cream, freshly grated parmesan cheese, and dried basil. Stir well to combine.
5
Pour the creamy mixture over the cooked zucchini, bacon, and onion, ensuring an even coating. Cover the dish and microwave for another 2 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.
6
Once done, let it sit for a minute before serving. Enjoy this comforting side dish with your favorite roast!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Crispy Bacon & Zucchini Cream Bake?
It is a savory side dish consisting of bacon and zucchini in a creamy parmesan and basil sauce, typically served with roasts.
How many zucchinis are needed for this recipe?
You will need 3-4 medium-sized zucchinis.
How should the zucchini be sliced?
The zucchini should be sliced diagonally into pieces approximately 1 cm thick.
What amount of bacon is required?
The recipe calls for 4-5 slices of diced bacon.
How do I prepare the onion for this dish?
You should use one medium onion and dice it before cooking.
What type of cream is used?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of cream.
What kind of cheese is added to the sauce?
Two tablespoons of freshly grated parmesan cheese are used.
Which herb is used for seasoning?
Dried basil is used, specifically 1 to 1.5 tablespoons.
Is this recipe cooked in an oven?
No, this dish is prepared entirely in the microwave.
How long should I microwave the bacon and onion initially?
Microwave the diced bacon and onion on high for 5 minutes until the bacon is crispy.
Do I need to cover the dish while cooking?
Yes, the dish should be covered during each microwave stage.
How long do I microwave the zucchini once it is added?
Microwave the zucchini with the bacon and onion for an additional 5 minutes.
How is the creamy sauce prepared?
In a separate bowl, mix the cream, freshly grated parmesan, and dried basil together.
What is the final cooking step in the microwave?
After pouring the sauce over the vegetables, microwave the dish for another 2 minutes.
Should the dish rest before serving?
Yes, let the bake sit for one minute before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is described as an effortless and easy recipe that comes together in a flash.
What is the recommended serving suggestion?
It is perfect as a side dish alongside comforting roasts.
What flavor profile does this dish offer?
It balances savory bacon and sweet zucchini with a rich, herb-infused creamy sauce.
Is this dish suitable for family gatherings?
Yes, it is a cherished family recipe frequently enjoyed at gatherings.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 6 main ingredients: zucchini, onion, bacon, cream, parmesan cheese, and dried basil.
Is this dish high in protein?
According to the tags, this is considered a low protein vegetable dish.
Can I use pre-grated parmesan cheese?
While you can, the recipe specifically recommends freshly grated parmesan for better flavor.
What is the aromatic finish in this recipe?
The dried basil provides the aromatic finish to the creamy sauce.
How thick should the zucchini slices be?
Aim for a thickness of about 1 cm.
What is the total microwave time?
The total microwave time is approximately 12 minutes.
What type of dish should I use?
A microwave-safe dish with a cover is required.
What texture should the onion have after the first step?
The onion should be translucent.
Is the zucchini cooked until it is mushy?
No, it is microwaved just enough to soften slightly before adding the sauce.
How should the cream mixture be applied?
It should be poured over the cooked zucchini, bacon, and onion to ensure an even coating.
What makes this a comfort food?
The combination of crispy bacon, tender vegetables, and a warm cream sauce makes it a comforting side.