Pin This Imagine starting your morning with the perfect blend of crispy, savory goodness that won't derail your keto goals. These Bacon and Egg Zucchini Nests transform simple ingredients into an impressive breakfast that's as nutritious as it is delicious. The zucchini creates a crispy, golden vessel that cradles smoky bacon and perfectly baked eggs, all while keeping carbs to a minimum.
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The magic of these zucchini nests lies in their versatility. The moisture removed from the zucchini ensures a crispy exterior that holds its shape, while the interior remains tender and flavorful. As the eggs bake nestled within the zucchini mixture, the yolks stay deliciously runny, creating a natural sauce that elevates the entire dish to brunch-worthy status.
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced (optional)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil (for greasing)
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or parsley (optional)
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- Prepare your oven and muffin tin
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a standard muffin tin with olive oil.
- Prepare the zucchini
- Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
- Make the zucchini mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the zucchini, onion (if using), salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cheddar cheese. Mix well.
- Form the nests
- Divide the zucchini mixture evenly among 4 muffin cups, pressing it firmly into the bottom and up the sides to form nests.
- Pre-bake the nests
- Bake the nests for 10 minutes, until they begin to set and turn lightly golden.
- Add bacon and eggs
- Remove the tin from the oven. Sprinkle crumbled bacon into each nest, then carefully crack an egg into each one.
- Finish baking
- Return to the oven and bake for another 8–10 minutes, until the egg whites are set but yolks are still slightly runny (or to your desired doneness).
- Cool and serve
- Let cool for 2–3 minutes before gently removing the nests from the tin. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley, if desired. Serve warm.
The most crucial step in this recipe is removing excess moisture from the zucchini. Take your time with this step—the drier the zucchini, the crispier your nests will be. Using a clean kitchen towel, squeeze repeatedly until no more water comes out. For the eggs, crack each one into a small bowl first before adding to the nests to ensure you don't break the yolks during transfer.
These zucchini nests are incredibly adaptable to your preferences. For a dairy-free version, simply omit the cheese. You can switch up the flavor profile by using different cheese varieties like mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for some heat. For a Mediterranean twist, add a sprinkle of feta cheese and dried oregano to the zucchini mixture. You can also substitute the bacon with smoked salmon or diced ham.
Serve these keto bacon and egg zucchini nests with sliced avocado for healthy fats and a pop of color. A side of mixed greens dressed with olive oil and lemon juice makes for a complete breakfast. For brunch gatherings, arrange the nests on a platter with fresh berries for a beautiful presentation that balances savory and sweet. These nests are substantial enough to be enjoyed on their own but also pair wonderfully with a cup of bulletproof coffee.
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These Keto Bacon and Egg Zucchini Nests are more than just a breakfast—they're a testament to how creative and delicious low-carb eating can be. With their perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and minimal carbs, they'll keep your energy steady throughout the morning. Whether you're strictly following keto or simply looking for a nutritious breakfast option, these zucchini nests deliver on flavor while supporting your health goals. The next time you're tempted to reach for a carb-heavy breakfast, remember these savory nests waiting to transform your morning routine.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I prevent zucchini nests from getting soggy?
Squeezing out excess moisture from grated zucchini using a clean towel before mixing ensures nests hold their shape and bake crisp.
- → Can I omit the cheese in this dish?
Yes, leaving out cheese makes these nests dairy-free without compromising the texture significantly.
- → What is the best way to cook the eggs inside the nests?
After partially baking the zucchini nests, add eggs and return to oven until whites are set but yolks remain slightly runny or cooked to preference.
- → Are there alternative cheeses to use in the nests?
Mozzarella or Swiss cheese work well and can be substituted to vary flavor while maintaining creamy texture.
- → Can these nests be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, bake the zucchini nests without eggs, refrigerate, then add eggs and bake fresh the next morning for convenience.
