Description

Scalloped dishes are often reserved for special occasions, but what if I told you that you could enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of a scalloped dish any night of the week? This Cheesy Scalloped Zucchini is the perfect example of how a simple yet sophisticated dish can elevate your dinner table without requiring hours in the kitchen. Imagine tender slices of zucchini bathed in a creamy, garlicky sauce, topped with a crisp layer of Gruyere cheese and breadcrumbs, and baked to golden perfection. It’s a side dish that feels luxurious but is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and weekend dinners.

Zucchini, often underappreciated, takes center stage in this recipe. Its mild flavor becomes the perfect canvas for a rich, cheesy sauce that’s seasoned just right with thyme and garlic. The best part? The entire dish comes together in under 15 minutes. Yes, you read that right — in just 15 minutes, you can have a side dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious. This recipe proves that great food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a few ingredients and a couple of simple steps, you can create a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter, softened, as needed
• 1 lb zucchini, thinly sliced
• 2/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, freshly grated
• 1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup Gruyere cheese, freshly grated
• 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Preparation Method

Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:

Position a rack in your oven about 6 inches from the broiler and heat the broiler on high. You don’t need to set a specific temperature; the broiler's heat will do all the work.
Grease a shallow 9x13-inch baking dish or a rimmed sheet pan with softened butter. This will prevent the zucchini from sticking and add a rich flavor to the dish.
Prepare the Zucchini:

Slice the zucchini thinly to ensure it cooks quickly and evenly. The thinner the slices, the better they will absorb the creamy sauce.
Arrange the zucchini slices on the prepared baking pan in a single layer. Season them generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the zucchini.
Broil the Zucchini:

Place the baking pan under the broiler and cook the zucchini for about 4 minutes, just until it begins to soften. The quick broiling will give the zucchini a head start in the cooking process and allow it to absorb the flavors of the sauce more effectively.
Make the Creamy Sauce:

While the zucchini is broiling, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, dried thyme, garlic powder, freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, and all-purpose flour. The flour helps thicken the sauce, while the parmesan adds a rich, savory depth.
Once the zucchini has softened, remove it from the oven and pour the cream mixture evenly over the slices. The sauce will start to seep into the zucchini, coating it in creamy goodness.
Add the Topping:

Sprinkle the freshly grated Gruyere cheese over the top of the zucchini and cream mixture. Gruyere melts beautifully and adds a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the zucchini.
For a delightful crunch, top the Gruyere with panko breadcrumbs. The breadcrumbs will toast under the broiler, creating a crispy contrast to the creamy zucchini.
Final Broil:

Return the baking dish to the oven and broil for another 4-5 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning — the goal is a perfect golden crust.
Serve:

Once broiled to perfection, remove the dish from the oven. Let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving. This will allow the sauce to set a bit and make serving easier.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:
Feel free to customize this dish to your liking. If you’re a fan of bold flavors, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream mixture for a little heat. Or, for a more decadent twist, substitute half of the Gruyere with sharp cheddar or provolone. These cheeses melt beautifully and add a robust flavor that complements the zucchini.

Conclusion:
This Cheesy Scalloped Zucchini is a dish that defies expectations. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying, proving that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create something special. The combination of tender zucchini, creamy sauce, and crispy cheese topping makes it a side dish that’s sure to impress at any dinner table. Whether you’re serving it alongside a simple grilled chicken or as part of a more elaborate spread, this dish will undoubtedly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the rich flavors, the satisfying textures, and the knowledge that you’ve just created something truly delicious in mere minutes!