Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Zucchini Gratin is a delightful and comforting dish that brings the fresh taste of zucchini together with creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s perfect as a side dish or even as a main course. With its layers of flavors and textures, this gratin is sure to please everyone at your table. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy vegetables in a delicious way!
How to Make Cheesy Zucchini Gratin
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter (plus more for buttering pan)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese (or mozzarella), divided
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4–5 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons freshly chopped thyme
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter a medium baking dish.
- In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Whisk in the flour and cook until golden and bubbling, about 1 minute.
- Slowly add the milk, stirring constantly. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 1 minute.
- Turn off the heat. Stir in 1 cup of Gruyère cheese and all of the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Layer the zucchini slices in the prepared baking dish. Pour one-third of the cheese sauce over the top. Sprinkle some Gruyère cheese and chopped thyme on top.
- Repeat the layering process two more times with the remaining zucchini, sauce, cheese, and seasonings.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh thyme and serve immediately.
How to Serve Cheesy Zucchini Gratin
Cheesy Zucchini Gratin is best served hot from the oven. You can enjoy it as a side dish with roasted meats or served alongside a fresh salad. It can also be a comforting main dish on its own. Just scoop out portions and place them on plates!
How to Store Cheesy Zucchini Gratin
If you have leftovers, let the gratin cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Tips to Make Cheesy Zucchini Gratin
- For added flavor, try using a mix of different cheeses.
- Make sure to slice the zucchini thinly for even cooking.
- If you want a slightly crispy top, broil the gratin for an additional few minutes after baking.
Variation
You can add other vegetables like eggplant or bell peppers to the layers for a more colorful dish. For a bit of a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add cooked bacon or sausage for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen zucchini for this dish?
Fresh zucchini is best for this recipe, but if you only have frozen zucchini, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure that your cheese is gluten-free as well.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the gratin a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake it right before serving.
