
Cheesy Zucchini Gratin
Description
If you’re searching for a delicious and low-carb side dish that’s as flavorful as it is satisfying, look no further than this Cheesy Zucchini Gratin. This dish combines thinly sliced zucchini with a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s bursting with garlic flavor. Baked to perfection with a golden cheese topping, it’s the ultimate comfort food without the carbs. Whether you’re serving it as a side for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this gratin is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 large zucchini, sliced thin & cut in half circles
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, sliced thin
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 cup cheese of your choice (I used a mix of mozzarella and Asiago)
- 3 large cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Skillet:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Cook the Onions and Garlic:
- In a large oven-proof skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until lightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Create the Creamy Sauce:
- Pour in the beef broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add the heavy cream and allow the mixture to begin bubbling gently.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Add Zucchini and Bake:
- Place the sliced zucchini into the skillet, stirring to coat them with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the zucchini starts to soften.
- Sprinkle your choice of cheese evenly across the top.
- Bake the Gratin:
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
Serving Tips:
- Serving Hot: Serve your Cheesy Zucchini Gratin hot from the oven to enjoy the gooey, melted cheese and creamy texture. It’s a great side dish for a variety of main courses.
- Accompaniment Suggestions: Pair it with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It also makes a hearty main dish for a vegetarian option.
- Garnish: For added freshness, consider garnishing with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish is completely cooled before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup.
- Freezing: You can freeze the gratin for up to 2 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For quicker reheating, use a microwave, but be aware that the texture might not be as crisp. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
These tips will help you keep your Cheesy Zucchini Gratin fresh and delicious, whether you’re enjoying it immediately or saving it for later.