Cheesy Zucchini Gratin

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:

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Skillet:
    • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

Serving and Storage Tips:

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.

Variations:

1. Add Bacon or Ham: Incorporate crispy bacon or diced ham for a savory twist. Simply cook the bacon or ham until crispy and crumble or chop it into the gratin along with the zucchini.

2. Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or gruyere for a unique flavor profile. Each cheese adds its own distinct taste and texture.

3. Include Other Vegetables: Mix in additional vegetables such as sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to enhance the dish. Just be sure to cook the vegetables until they are tender before adding them to the gratin.

4. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to give your gratin a spicy kick. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.

5. Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives for added flavor. Sprinkle them over the gratin before baking or mix them into the creamy sauce.

6. Add Nuts: For a crunchy texture, sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts on top of the gratin before baking. The nuts will add a delightful crunch and extra flavor.

7. Substitute Cream: For a lighter option, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half, milk, or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or coconut milk. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

8. Use Pre-Cooked Zucchini: If you prefer a softer texture, pre-cook the zucchini slices in a skillet until they are slightly tender before adding them to the gratin mixture.

9. Make It a Casserole: Transform this gratin into a hearty casserole by layering the zucchini mixture with cooked pasta or rice. Top with extra cheese and bake as directed.

10. Add a Crunchy Topping: Top the gratin with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese for a crispy, golden topping. Combine ¼ cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan and sprinkle over the gratin before baking.

These variations allow you to customize your Cheesy Zucchini Gratin to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile and enjoyable dish for any occasion.

FAQs:

1. Can I use frozen zucchini instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen zucchini, but make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture before adding it to the gratin. Frozen zucchini may release more liquid during baking.

2. How can I make this gratin vegetarian? The recipe is already vegetarian. Ensure that the cheese you use is vegetarian-friendly, meaning it doesn’t contain animal rennet.

3. Can I make this gratin ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the gratin a day in advance. Assemble it as directed, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the mozzarella and Asiago with any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, gouda, or fontina. Adjust the quantity as needed.

5. How can I make this dish dairy-free? To make the gratin dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and substitute the butter and heavy cream with vegan options like coconut oil and almond milk.

6. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe? Yes, you can add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or tomatoes. Sauté them briefly before adding to the gratin to ensure they are tender.

7. How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months.

8. How can I make this dish spicier? To add spice, include red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce in the recipe. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.

9. Can I use a different type of pan? Yes, you can use any oven-proof skillet or baking dish. If using a different pan, make sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary, as the thickness of the mixture may vary.

10. What can I serve with Cheesy Zucchini Gratin? This gratin pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a fresh salad. It also works well as a side for holiday dinners or a main dish for a light meal.

These FAQs address common questions and offer additional tips to help you get the most out of your Cheesy Zucchini Gratin experience.

Cheesy Zucchini Gratin is a delectable low-carb dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. With its rich, cheesy cream sauce and savory garlic notes, it makes a perfect side dish or a satisfying main course. Easy to prepare and adaptable to various tastes and dietary needs, this gratin is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with your next meal!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Cheesy Zucchini Gratin


  • Author: Lusine Svetlana

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

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Skillet:
    • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.