Cheesy Zucchini Gratin: A Deliciously Easy Recipe
Looking for a simple yet satisfying side dish that’s bursting with flavor? This cheesy zucchini gratin is the answer! It’s a fantastic way to use up that summer zucchini bounty and transform it into a comforting and elegant dish. This recipe is easy enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for a dinner party. The combination of tender zucchini, creamy sauce, and bubbly cheese topping is simply irresistible. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to make this delightful gratin.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Zucchini Gratin
* **Simple Ingredients:** This recipe uses everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry and refrigerator.
* **Easy to Make:** The steps are straightforward and require minimal cooking skills.
* **Versatile:** You can easily customize this gratin by adding different cheeses, herbs, or vegetables.
* **Delicious:** The creamy, cheesy flavor complements the mild zucchini perfectly.
* **Great for any occasion:** perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we get started, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
* **Zucchini:** 3 medium, thinly sliced
* **Onion:** 1 medium, finely chopped
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves, minced
* **Butter:** 4 tablespoons (divided)
* **All-purpose flour:** 3 tablespoons
* **Milk:** 2 cups
* **Heavy cream:** 1/2 cup (optional, for extra richness)
* **Gruyere cheese:** 1 cup, shredded (or a blend of Gruyere and Parmesan)
* **Parmesan cheese:** 1/2 cup, grated
* **Salt:** 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
* **Black pepper:** 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
* **Nutmeg:** 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for added warmth)
* **Fresh thyme:** 1 tablespoon, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
* **Breadcrumbs:** 1/4 cup (optional, for a crispy topping)
## Equipment You’ll Need
* **Large skillet or sauté pan**
* **9×13 inch baking dish**
* **Mixing bowls**
* **Whisk**
* **Knife and cutting board**
* **Cheese grater**
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have everything ready, let’s move on to the detailed instructions.
### Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
1. **Wash and Slice:** Wash the zucchini thoroughly and trim off the ends. Using a mandoline, knife, or vegetable peeler, slice the zucchini into thin, even rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. Thinner slices will cook more evenly. If the zucchini is very large, you can halve the slices.
2. **Salt and Drain (Optional):** For removing excess moisture and ensure the zucchini doesn’t get soggy, place the sliced zucchini in a colander, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt, and let it sit for about 20-30 minutes. This will draw out excess moisture. After 30 minutes, rinse the zucchini under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
### Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
1. **Melt Butter:** In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Make sure the pan is large enough to accommodate all the zucchini later.
2. **Sauté Onion:** Add the finely chopped onion to the melted butter and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and softened. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. **Add Garlic:** Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
### Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
1. **Melt Butter:** In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. **Add Flour:** Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
3. **Gradually Add Milk:** Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth.
4. **Simmer:** Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. If using, stir in the heavy cream for extra richness.
5. **Season:** Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
6. **Add Cheese:** Stir in 3/4 cup of the shredded Gruyere cheese and 1/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. **Incorporate Thyme:** Stir in the chopped fresh thyme (or dried thyme). The thyme adds a lovely herbaceous note to the sauce.
### Step 4: Assemble the Gratin
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Layer Ingredients:** Lightly grease the 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange a layer of zucchini slices on the bottom of the dish, overlapping them slightly.
3. **Pour Sauce:** Pour about one-third of the cream sauce over the zucchini layer, making sure to evenly coat the slices.
4. **Repeat Layers:** Repeat the layers of zucchini and sauce two more times, ending with a layer of sauce on top.
5. **Top with Cheese:** Sprinkle the remaining Gruyere and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the gratin.
6. **Add Breadcrumbs (Optional):** If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the cheese.
### Step 5: Bake the Gratin
1. **Bake:** Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the gratin is bubbly, the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the zucchini is tender. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
2. **Rest:** Remove the gratin from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly and make it easier to serve.
### Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
1. **Garnish (Optional):** Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley before serving, if desired.
2. **Serve:** Serve the cheesy zucchini gratin warm as a side dish or even as a light vegetarian main course. It pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a simple salad.
## Tips and Variations
* **Cheese Variations:** Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in this gratin. Fontina, mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar would all be delicious additions or substitutions.
* **Vegetable Additions:** Add other vegetables to the gratin, such as sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or tomatoes. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
* **Spice It Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
* **Make It Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make the cream sauce.
* **Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, oregano, or basil.
* **Breadcrumb Topping:** For a more flavorful breadcrumb topping, toss the breadcrumbs with melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and herbs before sprinkling them over the gratin.
* **Make Ahead:** You can assemble the gratin ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
* **Vegan Option:** Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and vegan cheese alternatives to make a dairy-free version of this gratin.
* **Garlic Lovers:** Roast the garlic for a richer and deeper garlic flavor. Add the roasted garlic to the cream sauce.
* **Even Slices:** Ensure the zucchini is evenly sliced for even cooking. A mandoline is your best friend for this.
## Serving Suggestions
This cheesy zucchini gratin is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways:
* **Side Dish:** Serve it alongside grilled or roasted meats, poultry, or fish.
* **Vegetarian Main Course:** Enjoy it as a light and satisfying vegetarian main course with a side salad.
* **Potluck Dish:** Bring it to a potluck or family gathering. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!
* **Brunch:** Add it to your brunch spread for a cheesy and flavorful addition.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
(Per Serving – based on 6 servings)
* Calories: 250-300
* Fat: 15-20g
* Protein: 10-15g
* Carbohydrates: 10-15g
*Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*
## Storing and Reheating
* **Storing:** Store leftover cheesy zucchini gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
## Conclusion
This cheesy zucchini gratin is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of summer. With its simple ingredients, straightforward instructions, and customizable options, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight side dish or an elegant addition to a dinner party, this gratin is the perfect choice. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a cheesy, comforting, and flavorful dish that will impress everyone at the table!
Enjoy your cheesy zucchini gratin!