Keto Loaded Zucchini Bake

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: ~55 minutes
Servings: 6
Net carbs: ~4–5g per serving (depends on brands)

Ingredients

Vegetables

• 4 medium zucchini (about 2 lb / 900 g)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (for drawing out moisture)

Cheese & Dairy

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp preferred)

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

Protein & Flavor

• 6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Topping

• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives

• Extra bacon and cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the zucchini

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Wash zucchini and slice into 1/4-inch rounds or half-moons.

3. Place zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt, and toss.

4. Let sit for 10 minutes to release excess moisture.

5. Rinse quickly and squeeze very dry using a clean towel or cheesecloth. This step is critical to avoid a watery bake.

2. Cook the bacon

1. Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy.

2. Remove, drain on paper towels, and crumble.

3. Reserve 1 tablespoon bacon fat for extra flavor (optional).

3. Make the creamy cheese mixture

1. In a large bowl, mix:

   • Cream cheese

   • Sour cream

   • Heavy cream (if using)

2. Stir until smooth.

3. Add garlic, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, and chili flakes.

4. Mix in 1 cup cheddar, 1/2 cup mozzarella, and 3/4 of the bacon crumbles.

4. Assemble

1. Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.

2. Spread zucchini evenly in the dish.

3. Pour cheese mixture over zucchini and gently fold to coat evenly.

4. Sprinkle remaining cheddar and bacon on top.

5. Bake

1. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden.

2. Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for a crisp top (watch closely).

6. Rest and serve

1. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

2. Garnish with green onions or chives.

Tips for Best Results

• Do not skip squeezing the zucchini dry; this prevents sogginess.

• Use full-fat dairy for best keto macros and texture.

• Sharp cheddar gives stronger flavor with less cheese.

• For a firmer bake, add 1 beaten egg to the cheese mixture.

Variations

• Extra protein: Add shredded chicken or ground sausage.

• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne.

• Vegetarian: Skip bacon and add sautéed mushrooms.

• Casserole-style: Add a second layer of zucchini and cheese mixture.