This Zucchini Gratin is a simple yet delicious side dish that combines tender zucchini with a creamy, cheesy sauce and a crispy topping. It’s baked to perfection, making it a comforting addition to any meal. With just a few ingredients, this gratin is a great way to elevate zucchini to a main attraction.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons (¾ stick) unsalted butter, plus extra for topping

• 1 pound yellow onions, cut in half and sliced (3 large)

• 2 pounds zucchini, sliced ¼-inch thick (4 zucchini)

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 cup hot milk

• ¾ cup fresh breadcrumbs

• ¾ cup grated Gruyère cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Cook the Onions
   Melt the butter in a large (12-inch) sauté pan. Cook the onions over low heat for 20 minutes, or until they are tender but not browned.

3. Add the Zucchini
   Add the zucchini to the pan and cover it. Cook for 10 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.

4. Season and Make the Sauce
   Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to the zucchini. Cook uncovered for 5 more minutes. Stir in the flour, then add the hot milk and cook over low heat for a few minutes until the mixture thickens into a sauce.

5. Assemble the Gratin
   Pour the zucchini mixture into an 8×10-inch baking dish. Combine the breadcrumbs and grated Gruyère and sprinkle it on top. Dot with 1 tablespoon of butter cut into small bits.

6. Bake
   Bake for 20 minutes, or until the gratin is bubbly and browned.

Estimated Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 20-25g

• Protein: 7-8g

• Fat: 18-22g

• Saturated Fat: 11-13g

• Cholesterol: 40-50mg

• Sodium: 600-700mg

• Potassium: 400-500mg

• Fiber: 2-3g

• Sugar: 4-6g

• Calcium: 150-200mg

• Iron: 1-2mg

These values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes. The gratin is a rich dish due to the butter and Gruyère cheese but offers a good amount of protein and fiber from the zucchini.

The Magic of Zucchini in a Gratin

Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of ways, but its mild flavor sometimes needs a bit of enhancement to truly shine. In this gratin, the zucchini is transformed with the addition of butter, onions, and a rich, creamy sauce made from milk and Gruyère cheese. The mild, slightly sweet flavor of zucchini pairs beautifully with the savory notes of Gruyère and the warm spices from nutmeg and pepper. The slow cooking of the onions creates a deep, sweet flavor that infuses the dish with additional layers of taste.

The addition of breadcrumbs on top not only adds a crispy texture but also complements the creamy interior. The result is a dish that’s balanced in both texture and flavor, providing a warm, rich experience with every bite. This gratin is a fantastic way to elevate zucchini, turning it into a comforting, indulgent dish that will delight both vegetable lovers and skeptics alike.

How to Make Zucchini Gratin

Making Zucchini Gratin is straightforward, and while it may seem like a bit of effort, it’s definitely worth it. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this delicious dish:

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the gratin will bake evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown crust on top.

2. Cook the Onions

In a large (12-inch) sauté pan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook them for about 20 minutes. The goal is to soften the onions and bring out their natural sweetness, but avoid letting them brown too much. The slow cooking process will transform them into a tender, flavorful base for the gratin.

3. Add the Zucchini

Once the onions are tender, add the zucchini slices to the pan. Cover the pan and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the zucchini has softened. The zucchini will release some moisture as it cooks, which will contribute to the creaminess of the dish.

4. Season and Make the Sauce

After the zucchini has cooked, season it with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Once the zucchini mixture is well-seasoned, sprinkle in the flour and stir it in to create a roux. Gradually add the hot milk to the pan, stirring continuously. Continue cooking over low heat for a few more minutes until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.

5. Assemble the Gratin

Now it’s time to assemble the gratin. Pour the zucchini mixture into a prepared 8×10-inch baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the fresh breadcrumbs and grated Gruyère cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the zucchini. Dot the surface with small bits of butter (about 1 tablespoon). The butter will melt during baking, adding richness to the gratin and helping the topping crisp up beautifully.

6. Bake the Gratin

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the gratin is bubbly and the top is golden brown. The heat of the oven will cook the zucchini further, meld the flavors, and create a crispy, cheesy topping.

7. Serve

Once the gratin is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. The dish can be served warm as a side dish alongside meats like roast chicken, grilled steak, or pork chops. It also pairs wonderfully with other vegetables or even a simple salad for a lighter meal. The gratin is best served while it’s still warm, when the flavors are at their peak and the topping is crisp.

Tips for a Perfect Zucchini Gratin

• Zucchini Slicing: To ensure the zucchini cooks evenly, slice it into ¼-inch thick rounds. This helps the zucchini soften properly without becoming mushy.

• Gratin Consistency: If the zucchini releases too much moisture while cooking, you can drain off the excess liquid before assembling the gratin to ensure a thicker, creamier sauce.

• Cheese Alternatives: While Gruyère cheese is recommended for its rich flavor and meltability, you can substitute it with other cheeses like cheddar, Parmesan, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

• Make-Ahead Option: This gratin can be prepared ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Zucchini Gratin makes a perfect side dish for a variety of main courses. Here are some ideas for how to serve it:

• With Roasted Meat: Zucchini Gratin pairs beautifully with roasted meats such as chicken, turkey, or pork. The rich, cheesy flavors complement the savory taste of the meat.

• As a Vegetarian Meal: For a light, vegetarian meal, serve the gratin with a fresh salad and a side of crusty bread.

• With Grilled Fish: The light, fresh flavors of zucchini make it an excellent accompaniment to grilled fish like salmon or trout.

• With Pasta: Zucchini Gratin can also be served as a side dish with pasta. Try it alongside a simple spaghetti with marinara sauce or a creamy alfredo.

Conclusion: A Comforting, Simple Side Dish

Zucchini Gratin is the ultimate comfort food, transforming a humble vegetable into a rich, indulgent side dish that will elevate any meal. Its creamy sauce, tender zucchini, and crispy cheese topping are a perfect combination that appeals to all ages. Despite its richness, the dish remains simple and easy to prepare, making it a great addition to any weeknight dinner or special occasion.

With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, Zucchini Gratin is a versatile side dish that can complement a wide range of main courses, from roasted meats to fresh salads. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal, this gratin is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.