Name: Gratin de Courgettes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced; 200 ml heavy cream; 100 g Gruyère cheese, grated; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 30 g butter; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional); 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional); 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)

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This zucchini gratin is the perfect balance of light vegetables and rich creamy texture. Thinly sliced courgettes are gently sautéed with garlic, then baked in cream and melted Gruyère cheese until golden and bubbling. It’s an easy side dish that feels comforting and elegant at the same time, making it ideal for family dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
Rich, creamy texture without being too heavy
A delicious way to enjoy fresh zucchini
Perfect as a side dish or light vegetarian meal
Golden cheesy topping adds incredible flavor
Great for weeknight dinners and gatherings
Naturally low in carbohydrates
Customizable with herbs and extra vegetables

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
200 ml heavy cream
100 g Gruyère cheese, grated
2 garlic cloves, minced
30 g butter
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional additions:

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese for extra browning

Directions

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a medium baking dish with a little butter.
Wash the zucchinis and slice them into thin rounds. Try to keep the slices even so they cook uniformly.
Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper, then sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until the zucchini begins to soften slightly. The goal is not to fully cook them but to remove some moisture and enhance their flavor.
Transfer the zucchini mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Pour the cream evenly over the zucchini. Make sure the cream reaches all areas of the dish for a smooth and creamy texture.
Sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese generously over the top. If desired, add Parmesan cheese for an even crispier golden crust.
Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and bubbling around the edges.
Remove the gratin from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving easier.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Add sliced potatoes for a heartier gratin.
Mix in caramelized onions for extra sweetness.
Replace Gruyère with mozzarella, cheddar, or Emmental cheese.
Add fresh thyme or oregano for an herby flavor.
Include sliced mushrooms or spinach for more vegetables.
Use half cream and half milk for a lighter texture.
Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place the gratin in an oven-safe dish and warm at 170°C (340°F) for about 15 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1 to 2 minutes, though the topping may lose some crispness.

For freezing, allow the gratin to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I prepare zucchini gratin ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the gratin several hours in advance and refrigerate it before baking.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

No, the skin becomes tender during baking and adds color and nutrients.

Why is my gratin watery?

Zucchini naturally contains a lot of water. Lightly sautéing it first helps reduce excess moisture.

Can I use another cheese instead of Gruyère?

Absolutely. Mozzarella, cheddar, Emmental, or Parmesan all work well.

Can I make this dish lighter?

Yes, you can substitute part of the cream with milk or use light cream.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this gratin is fully vegetarian.

What can I serve with zucchini gratin?

It pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled fish, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Can I add herbs to the recipe?

Fresh thyme, parsley, basil, or oregano all complement the flavors beautifully.

How do I get a crispier top?

Add a little Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs before baking.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, the gratin freezes well for up to 2 months when stored properly.

Conclusion

Gratin de Courgettes is a simple yet elegant dish that transforms fresh zucchini into a creamy and satisfying meal. With its golden cheesy crust and delicate garlic flavor, this comforting recipe is perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Easy to customize and simple to prepare, it’s a delicious way to enjoy zucchini in a warm and hearty form.