Cheesy Scalloped Zucchini Recipe
This Cheesy Scalloped Zucchini is a creamy, comforting side dish featuring thinly sliced zucchini baked with a rich blend of Parmigiano-Reggiano and Gruyere cheeses, topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs. Broiling brings out a golden, bubbling crust that perfectly complements the tender zucchini beneath, making it an elegant yet easy addition to any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 9-10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Zucchini and Seasonings
- 1 lb zucchini, thinly sliced
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cream Sauce and Toppings
- Unsalted butter, softened, as needed for greasing
- ⅔ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, freshly grated
- 1 ½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ cup Gruyere cheese, freshly grated
- ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking dish: Position a rack about 6 inches from the broiler in your oven and preheat the broiler on high. Lightly grease a shallow 9×13-inch baking dish or a rimmed sheet pan with softened unsalted butter to prevent sticking.
- Season and broil zucchini: Season the thinly sliced zucchini with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Arrange the slices evenly on the prepared baking dish. Place the dish under the broiler just long enough for the zucchini to begin softening, approximately 4 minutes. This step helps release excess moisture and partially cooks the zucchini.
- Make the cream sauce: While the zucchini is broiling, whisk together the heavy cream, dried thyme, garlic powder, freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, and all-purpose flour in a small bowl until well combined. This mixture will thicken as it cooks, creating a rich sauce.
- Assemble the dish: Pour the cream mixture evenly over the partially cooked zucchini in the baking dish. Then, sprinkle the grated Gruyere cheese evenly on top, followed by a layer of panko breadcrumbs. The combination of cheese and breadcrumbs will create a bubbly, golden crust.
- Broil to finish: Return the dish to the oven under the broiler and cook until the topping is golden brown and bubbly, about 4 to 5 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your cheesy scalloped zucchini warm as a deliciously creamy side dish.
Notes
- Ensure zucchini is sliced thinly and evenly for uniform cooking and texture.
- Monitor closely during broiling to prevent burning of cheese and breadcrumbs.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the dish will be less rich.
- Use freshly grated cheeses for the best melting and flavor results.
- Panko breadcrumbs add extra crunch; substitute with regular breadcrumbs if needed but expect a less crispy topping.
Keywords: scalloped zucchini, cheesy zucchini bake, zucchini side dish, broiled zucchini, creamy zucchini casserole
Find it online: https://thefoodrecipe.com/cheesy-scalloped-zucchini-recipe/
