Bacon and Vegetable Bake Recipes for Easy Family Meals

Bacon and vegetable bakes are the perfect way to combine savory, smoky flavors with the wholesome goodness of fresh vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to share with friends, this recipe strikes the perfect balance.

The crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch and rich flavor, while the medley of colorful vegetables brings freshness and nutrients to every bite. This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing you to swap in your favorite vegetables or add a cheesy topping for extra indulgence.

Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to prepare and clean up afterward, making it ideal for busy cooks who still want to impress at the dinner table.

In this post, you’ll find a detailed recipe for a classic bacon and vegetable bake, along with tips to customize it for your taste and lifestyle. Ready to dive into a delicious, wholesome meal?

Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bacon and vegetable bake is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s packed with flavor — the smoky bacon perfectly complements the natural sweetness and earthiness of the vegetables.

It’s also a fantastic way to incorporate more veggies into your diet without sacrificing taste.

Another great thing about this recipe is its flexibility. You can use whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a practical choice to reduce food waste.

It also works well as a make-ahead meal, so it’s perfect for meal prep or feeding a hungry family.

Finally, the bake is simple to make and requires minimal hands-on time. Just chop, layer, and bake.

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced home cook, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and rewarding.

Ingredients

• 8 slices of bacon, chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large carrot, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Large baking dish (9×13 inches recommended)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Aluminum foil (optional, for covering)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the bake will cook evenly and develop a nice golden top.
2. Prepare the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels to drain excess fat.
3. Chop the vegetables: While the bacon cooks, peel and dice the potatoes, slice the carrot and zucchini, chop the red bell pepper, dice the onion, and halve the cherry tomatoes.
4. Mix the vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the potatoes, carrot, bell pepper, zucchini, onion, broccoli florets, garlic, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat everything evenly.
5. Assemble the bake: Transfer the vegetable mixture to the baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the cooked bacon over the top.
6. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. Optional cheese topping: Five minutes before baking is done, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the vegetables and bacon. Return to the oven until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.
8. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a handful of chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or basil before baking.

• Vegetable swaps: Feel free to substitute or add vegetables such as mushrooms, cauliflower, green beans, or sweet potatoes based on what’s in season or your personal preference.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap smoked paprika for chipotle powder to add heat.
• Cheese alternatives: For a different twist, try feta, mozzarella, or a vegan cheese substitute to keep it dairy-free.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the bacon and add extra smoked paprika or liquid smoke to keep that smoky flavor. For protein, toss in some cooked chickpeas or white beans.
• Meal prep friendly: Prepare everything ahead of time and refrigerate the assembled dish. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to eat.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This bacon and vegetable bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. For a more filling meal, serve alongside steamed rice or quinoa.

Leftovers make a great lunch option and can be reheated easily in the microwave or oven. If you’re looking for complementary flavors, check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion for fresh side dish ideas.

For a lighter twist on your meal, consider pairing with a refreshing cucumber salad or a tangy vinegar-based slaw.

Conclusion

The bacon and vegetable bake is a delicious, comforting dish that brings together the best of smoky, savory, and fresh flavors in one easy recipe. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a variety of vegetables while indulging in the rich taste of bacon, creating a perfect balance that everyone will love.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is versatile, satisfying, and straightforward to prepare. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or spices to make it your own.

For more inspiring meal ideas and to explore a variety of vegetable-forward dishes, check out our Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals and Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals.

Happy cooking!

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