🧀 Zucchini and Squash Au Gratin
A quick, cheesy, low-carb side dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for warm days.
✅ Description:
This zucchini and squash au gratin is a creamy, cheesy, golden delight that makes an ideal side dish for any meal. With thinly sliced summer squash, melty cheddar, savory Parmesan, and a rich garlic cream sauce, it’s ready in under 30 minutes and won’t overheat your kitchen.
📝 Ingredients:
- 1 zucchini, sliced thin
- 1 yellow squash, sliced thin
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳 Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish. - Prepare Veggies:
Thinly slice zucchini and yellow squash using a mandoline or sharp knife for even cooking. - Make Garlic Cream Sauce:
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and let it warm for 1 minute. Remove from heat. - Assemble:
Layer zucchini and squash slices in the dish, alternating for a pretty pattern. Season with salt and pepper. - Add Cheese & Cream:
Pour the garlic cream evenly over the veggies. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, then finish with grated Parmesan. - Bake:
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly and the squash is tender. - Serve:
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired (thyme or parsley work great).
🍽️ Servings:
Serves 2–3 as a side dish.
📊 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: ~220
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
(Estimates will vary depending on ingredient brands and portion size.)
🌿 Health Benefits:
- Low Carb: A great alternative to potato gratin or starchy sides.
- Zucchini & Squash: High in water content, fiber, and vitamins A & C.
- Calcium-Rich: Cheddar and Parmesan offer bone-strengthening calcium.
- Garlic: Adds flavor and has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
💡 Tips & Notes:
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on it—squash can go from tender to mushy quickly.
- Add Crunch: Top with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds for texture.
- Mix Up the Cheese: Try Gruyère, mozzarella, or a smoky gouda for variation.
- Make it in a Skillet: Use an oven-safe skillet and broil the top for 2 minutes at the end for extra browning.
- Make Ahead: Assemble ahead of time, refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
❓Q&A:
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use a dairy-free cream and cheese substitute. Nutritional yeast also adds a cheesy flavor.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely. Just use a larger baking dish and increase baking time slightly.
Q: How do I slice the squash evenly?
A: A mandoline slicer ensures even, thin slices for uniform cooking.
Q: Can I add protein to make it a main dish?
A: Sure! Add cooked crumbled sausage or shredded chicken before baking.
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