Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or line with paper muffin liners for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the pan and place on paper towels to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside.

Step 3: Grate the Vegetables

Grate the zucchini and potato using a box grater or a food processor. Place the shredded vegetables in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This will prevent the muffins from becoming too soggy during baking. Set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet you used for the bacon, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder (if using). Whisk the dry ingredients together until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and olive oil (or melted butter). Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in dense muffins.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Gently fold the shredded zucchini, potato, crumbled bacon, sautéed onion and garlic, and shredded cheddar cheese into the batter. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 8: Fill the Muffin Tin

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ of the way full. If you want an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle a bit more cheddar cheese over each muffin.

Step 9: Bake the Muffins

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should be firm and slightly crisp, while the inside remains tender and moist.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, or serve warm. These muffins are delicious hot, but also perfect to enjoy at room temperature.