Zucchini Gratin with Yellow Squash: A Creamy, Cheesy Delight
If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting way to enjoy your summer vegetables, this Zucchini Gratin with Yellow Squash is the perfect recipe. With layers of tender zucchini and yellow squash smothered in a rich cream sauce and topped with smoky gouda cheese, this dish makes an irresistible side for any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this gratin is sure to impress with its creamy texture and bold flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ onion, thinly sliced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into rounds ⅛ to ¼ inch thick
- 1 small yellow squash, sliced into rounds ⅛ to ¼ inch thick
- 2 large cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated parmesan
- 1 cup shredded smoked gouda
Directions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) to ensure it’s ready for the gratin once assembled.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In an oven-proof skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and cook until the edges start to brown, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. This step adds a deep, savory base to the dish.
3. Create the Cream Sauce:
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and let it simmer until it becomes bubbly and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until fully incorporated into the sauce. The parmesan adds a nice salty, umami flavor to balance the richness of the cream.
4. Add the Zucchini and Squash:
Layer the sliced zucchini and yellow squash evenly in the skillet, stirring them gently into the cream sauce. Let the vegetables cook for about 4-5 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly in the creamy mixture while absorbing all the flavors.
5. Top with Smoked Gouda:
Sprinkle the shredded smoked gouda evenly over the top of the zucchini and squash mixture. The gouda adds a beautifully smoky, melty topping that’s perfect for gratins.
6. Bake the Gratin:
Transfer the oven-proof skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top. The dish should be bubbling with cheesy goodness!
7. Serve:
Remove the gratin from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm as a side dish with your favorite main course, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy layers of flavor.
Recipe Tips:
- Uniform Slices: To ensure even cooking, try to slice the zucchini and yellow squash as evenly as possible, about ⅛ to ¼ inch thick.
- Add Herbs: For extra flavor, sprinkle in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the cream sauce before adding the vegetables.
- Cheese Swap: If smoked gouda isn’t available, you can substitute it with sharp cheddar or mozzarella for a similar melt and flavor.
Quick Facts:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Calories: 280 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of heavy cream, parmesan, and smoked gouda makes this gratin ultra-rich and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps and one skillet, this dish is easy to prepare and delivers big flavor in a short amount of time.
- Perfect for Summer Veggies: This recipe is a great way to use up zucchini and yellow squash, making it a delicious seasonal side.
This Zucchini Gratin with Yellow Squash is the ultimate comfort food for vegetable lovers. With its creamy sauce and cheesy topping, it’s a decadent side that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as a standalone dish. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this gratin is bound to become a favorite!
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Zucchini Gratin with Yellow Squash
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
This Zucchini Gratin with Yellow Squash is a rich and comforting dish that combines tender slices of zucchini and yellow squash with a creamy sauce, all topped with a golden layer of melted smoked gouda. The combination of fresh vegetables with the smoky flavor of gouda and the sharpness of parmesan creates a flavorful and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter
½ onion, thinly sliced
1 small zucchini, sliced into rounds ⅛ to ¼ inch thick
1 small yellow squash, sliced into rounds ⅛ to ¼ inch thick
2 large cloves garlic, minced
½ cup heavy cream
¼ cup grated parmesan
1 cup shredded smoked gouda
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
In an oven-proof skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until the edges start to brown, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer until bubbly and slightly thickened. Slowly stir in the grated parmesan cheese until incorporated.
Add the sliced zucchini and yellow squash to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly in the cream mixture.
Sprinkle the shredded smoked gouda evenly over the top of the zucchini and squash.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 280