Cheesy Ham and Grated Zucchini Squares are the perfect all-in-one savory bake that’s ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. These golden squares are fluffy, flavorful, and loaded with simple ingredients that come together effortlessly. Think of it as a crustless quiche meets a cheesy vegetable slice—packed with juicy zucchini, smoky ham, and melted cheese. It’s one of those recipes that works beautifully whether you’re feeding a crowd or just prepping ahead for grab-and-go lunches. The texture is light yet satisfying, and each bite delivers a perfect balance of saltiness from the ham, creaminess from the cheese, and freshness from the zucchini. It’s a dish that feels comforting and wholesome, with a lovely homemade charm that’s hard to resist.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, grated and squeezed dry

• 1 cup (100 g) grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend)

• 150 g (5 oz) diced ham

• 4 large eggs

• ½ cup (120 ml) milk

• 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for extra moisture)

• Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or dill for added flavor

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Zucchini:
   Start by washing and grating the zucchinis. Place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial to prevent the squares from turning soggy later on.

2. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 180°C (355°F). Line a rectangular baking dish or a 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper, lightly greasing it to ensure easy removal later.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and olive oil (or melted butter). Season with salt and black pepper.

4. Add the Dry Ingredients:
   Sift in the flour and baking powder, whisking until you have a smooth, lump-free batter.

5. Add the Flavorful Fillings:
   Stir in the grated zucchini, diced ham, grated cheese, and optional herbs. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined. The batter should be thick but spreadable.

6. Bake the Squares:
   Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool and Slice:
   Let the bake cool slightly before cutting into squares. This allows the texture to set properly and makes slicing easier.

8. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve warm with a side salad, a dollop of sour cream, or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick. These squares also taste great cold, making them perfect for picnics or lunchboxes.

Nutrients

• Calories: Approx. 220 kcal per square

• Protein: 14 g

• Carbohydrates: 9 g

• Fat: 14 g

• Fiber: 1.5 g

• Calcium: 18% DV

• Iron: 6% DV

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll fall in love with Cheesy Ham and Grated Zucchini Squares because they’re easy, flexible, and downright delicious. They take minimal effort to prepare, use everyday ingredients, and deliver maximum comfort. It’s a wonderful way to sneak extra veggies into your meal without compromising on taste. The ham adds a savory punch that balances the lightness of the zucchini, while the cheese melts into gooey perfection. These squares also hold up beautifully, making them ideal for meal prep, lunch boxes, or weekend brunches. They’re nutritious, protein-packed, and family-approved—basically, your new go-to savory bake.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

This dish takes inspiration from traditional European vegetable slices and frittatas but adds a modern twist with ham and cheese. It’s the kind of recipe you’d find at a cozy countryside café or a family gathering—simple, homey, and full of character. Zucchini bakes have long been popular in Mediterranean kitchens, where cooks know how to turn humble vegetables into comforting meals. By incorporating diced ham and gooey cheese, this recipe strikes that perfect harmony between rustic charm and indulgent comfort food.

Ingredient Spotlight

Zucchini is the heart of this recipe. Its mild flavor and high moisture content make the bake tender and soft while adding a touch of natural sweetness. Ham brings a smoky and salty note that enhances the overall flavor profile, making it rich without being overwhelming. Cheese is where the magic happens—it melts into the mixture, binding everything together and forming that irresistible golden crust on top. Using a blend of cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella can add extra depth and texture. The eggs and milk provide structure and creaminess, ensuring each square is light yet satisfying. And finally, a touch of flour and baking powder gives it just enough lift to create that lovely fluffy texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These savory squares store exceptionally well, making them a meal prep hero. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop a square in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm them in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10 minutes to revive that crisp top. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Just separate each square with parchment paper before freezing to prevent sticking. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm as usual.

Common Variations to Try

There’s so much room to play with this recipe. For a vegetarian version, skip the ham and add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach instead. If you’re in the mood for more flavor, try a Mediterranean twist by adding crumbled feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano. Love a little spice? Go for a Spicy Jalapeño version by mixing in chopped chili or pepper flakes. You can also make it gluten-free by swapping all-purpose flour for almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Or for a breakfast edition, add chopped bacon or sausage pieces for extra heartiness.

Pairing Recommendations

These squares pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad, roasted tomatoes, or a bowl of tomato soup. They also go well with sauces like sour cream, tzatziki, or even a light garlic aioli. If you’re serving them for brunch, pair with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a hot cappuccino. For dinner, they’re lovely alongside roasted vegetables or a creamy potato gratin.

Health Benefits

Beyond being delicious, this recipe offers plenty of nutritional perks. Zucchini is rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, which promote healthy digestion and glowing skin. Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients, while cheese offers calcium for strong bones. Even though it feels indulgent, this bake is balanced and satisfying, keeping you full for longer. It’s a wholesome way to enjoy comfort food without guilt.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ham and Grated Zucchini Squares are the ultimate combination of easy, tasty, and wholesome. Whether you’re looking for a make-ahead meal, a savory snack, or a family-friendly bake, this recipe delivers every time. It’s proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients to create something truly satisfying. From its creamy texture to its golden, cheesy crust, every bite is a warm reminder of simple home cooking at its best. Once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat—it’s that good!