One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread

This One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread is a delightful way to use up those extra zucchinis! It’s incredibly simple—just mix your ingredients in one bowl, pour into a loaf tin, and bake until golden. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a savory snack, this recipe is bursting with flavors from cheese, scallions, and bacon. Plus, there’s no need to drain the zucchini; just throw it in as is. It’s a versatile dish that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only one bowl needed for mixing, cleanup is a breeze.
• Savory Flavor Explosion: The combination of cheddar, feta, and crispy bacon elevates the taste.
• Versatile: Enjoy it any time of day—breakfast, lunch, or as an afternoon snack.
• No Zucchini Wasted: Use up those extra zucchinis without the hassle of draining them first.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in other ingredients based on your preferences!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your delicious zucchini bread, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf tin (8.5x 4.5 x 2.5)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Baking paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf tin: The right size ensures even baking and proper rise.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing without spills.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining wet and dry ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

To make this scrumptious One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread, you’ll need:

• 4 eggs
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1 cup plain flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2.5 cups grated zucchini (roughly 2 large zucchini or 375g)
• 3 scallions (spring onions), finely sliced
• 3 slices of streaky bacon
• ½ cup cheddar cheese, grated (plus extra to scatter on top)
• ½ cup feta, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons chilli flakes
• Black pepper
• 1 tablespoon everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds (optional)
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

How to Make One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Tin and Oven

• Line your loaf tin with greaseproof paper.
• Preheat your oven to 400F/200C fan.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon (Optional)

• You can add uncooked bacon directly to the mixture if you prefer softer pieces. However, cooking it first adds a crispy texture and enhances flavor.
• If you’re cooking it:
• Place the bacon slices in a pan over medium-high heat.
• Cook for about five minutes until super crispy; flip occasionally.
• Remove from the pan and chop into small pieces.

Step 3: Mix Your Ingredients

1. Crack the eggs into a mixing bowl and whisk them well.
2. Add the olive oil followed by flour and baking powder.
3. Stir in fish sauce along with grated zucchini, chopped scallions, chilli flakes, chopped bacon, cheddar cheese, feta cheese, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest if using.
4. Mix until no streaks of flour remain; the batter will be quite wet.

Step 4: Bake Your Bread

1. Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf tin.
2. Scatter extra cheese on top along with everything bagel seasoning if desired.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes until deeply golden brown.
4. To check doneness, insert a skewer or knife into the center; it should come out clean.
5. If there’s sticky residue on the skewer, return it to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

• Once baked, remove from oven and let cool in the tin for about five minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
• Slice your bread once cooled slightly and serve with softened butter—roasted garlic butter pairs exceptionally well!

Enjoy this delightful One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread

This cheesy zucchini bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a hearty meal, here are some serving suggestions that pair perfectly with this delicious dish.

With Softened Butter

• Garlic Butter: Spread some roasted garlic butter on warm slices for an irresistible flavor boost.
• Herbed Butter: Mix fresh herbs into softened butter for a refreshing twist.

As a Breakfast Option

• With Eggs: Serve alongside scrambled or poached eggs for a fulfilling breakfast.
• Toast with Jam: Top slices with your favorite jam for a sweet morning treat.

As a Snack

• Cheese Platter: Pair with assorted cheeses and crackers for an afternoon snack.
• Veggie Dips: Enjoy slices with hummus or tzatziki for a healthy option.

For Lunch or Dinner

• Salad Companion: Serve as a side with a fresh garden salad to add texture and flavor.
• With Soup: Enjoy it alongside tomato soup or chowder for a comforting meal.

How to Perfect One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread

To make sure your cheesy zucchini bread turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchini will provide the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t Drain the Zucchini: The moisture from the zucchini keeps the bread moist; draining it can lead to dryness.
• Check Your Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is properly calibrated to avoid uneven baking.
• Let It Cool: Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing to maintain its shape and texture.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different types of cheese like mozzarella or gouda for unique flavors.
• Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread

Pairing side dishes with your one bowl cheesy zucchini bread can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing adds crunch and freshness.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender complements the bread’s flavors nicely.
3. Chili Con Carne: A hearty portion of chili balances the cheese’s richness for a comforting meal.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer a delightful crunch alongside each bite of bread.
5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a sweet contrast that’s perfect for brunch.
6. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw brings brightness and acidity, enhancing the overall dish’s profile.
7. Creamy Tomato Soup: This classic pairing makes for a cozy combination that warms you up on chilly days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out perfectly.

• Using too much flour: Over-measuring flour can lead to a dry loaf. Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
• Not mixing well enough: Failing to mix thoroughly can leave pockets of dry ingredients. Make sure there are no streaks of flour before pouring the mixture into the tin.
• Skipping the bacon: While optional, skipping the bacon may result in less flavor. Consider adding cooked bacon for extra taste and texture.
• Not checking for doneness: Baking times can vary. Always test with a skewer and add more time if necessary for a perfectly baked center.
• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into the bread too soon can make it fall apart. Allow it to cool before slicing to maintain its structure.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• • Container: Use an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh.

Freezing One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• • Container: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap bread in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 20-30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium-low heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, adding butter if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread that may help you out.

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Yes, you can substitute yellow squash for zucchini in this recipe. It will provide a slightly different flavor but will work well.

What cheese works best in One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread?

While cheddar and feta are excellent choices, feel free to experiment with mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor and creaminess.

How do I make my One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread healthier?

Consider using whole wheat flour instead of plain flour and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with flax eggs or applesauce, and replace cheese with plant-based alternatives to create a vegan version of this dish.

What should I serve with One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread?

This delicious bread pairs well with soups, salads, or even as a snack with butter or hummus spread on top.

Final Thoughts

One Bowl Cheesy Zucchini Bread is not only simple but also offers versatility in flavors and ingredients. Whether enjoyed as breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it’s perfect any time of day! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!