Introduction
Cheesy Zucchini Gratin is a comforting and elegant side dish that turns simple zucchini into a star of the table. Baked in a creamy sauce with layers of melted cheese, it combines the tenderness of zucchini with the richness of cream and the irresistible crunch of a golden topping.
This dish is loved across Europe and America as a hearty side for roasts, chicken, or fish, and it also works beautifully as a vegetarian main dish. It’s a fantastic way to transform seasonal zucchini into a flavorful, oven-baked masterpiece.
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🥗 Ingredients
• Main Vegetables:
• 4 medium zucchinis (sliced into thin rounds)
• 1 medium onion (thinly sliced, optional)
• For the Cream Sauce:
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried thyme (or fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano)
• Cheese Layer:
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Topping (optional but delicious):
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 3 tbsp cooked crispy bacon bits
• Fresh parsley for garnish
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📝 Instructions
1. Prepare Zucchini
• Wash and slice zucchinis into thin rounds.
• Lightly salt them and let sit for 10 minutes to release water. Pat dry.
2. Make Cream Sauce
• Heat butter in a pan, sauté garlic until fragrant.
• Add cream, season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Layer the Dish
• Grease a baking dish with butter.
• Arrange a layer of zucchini slices.
• Spoon some cream sauce over it.
• Sprinkle a mix of cheeses.
• Repeat layers until ingredients are used up.
4. Prepare Topping
• Mix breadcrumbs with olive oil/butter.
• Add bacon bits if using.
• Sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
5. Bake
• Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
• Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
• Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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🍽 Methods
• Classic Method: With cream, butter, and three kinds of cheese for richness.
• Light Method: Use low-fat milk or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
• Keto Method: Skip breadcrumbs and bacon, use almond flour for topping.
• Fusion Method: Add Moroccan spices like cumin or paprika for extra flavor.
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📜 History
Gratin dishes originated in French cuisine, where “gratin” means “crusted” or “browned topping.” Traditionally, potatoes or root vegetables were baked with cream and cheese. Zucchini gratin is a modern twist, especially popular in Mediterranean regions where zucchini is abundant. It reflects the French love for creamy, cheesy oven dishes but with a lighter, greener twist.
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🌿 Benefits
• Zucchini: Low in calories, rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
• Cheese & Cream: Provide calcium and protein.
• Balanced Dish: Can be a side or main course, satisfying yet nutritious.
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🏛 Formation
The gratin forms layers of zucchini slices bathed in cream and cheese, baked until bubbly, with a crunchy golden top. Each layer melts into the next, creating a creamy interior with a satisfying contrast of textures.
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💌 Conclusion
Cheesy Zucchini Gratin is a dish that turns everyday vegetables into a celebration. It’s hearty, delicious, and elegant — perfect for family dinners, festive meals, or potluck gatherings.
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❤️ Lovers
• Vegetable Lovers: Enjoy zucchini in a creamy, irresistible way.
• Cheese Lovers: The rich, golden topping makes every bite a delight.
• Family Lovers: Easy to make in a big dish for sharing at the table.