Cheesy Scalloped Zucchini A Delicious Twist on a Classic
Cheesy scalloped zucchini is a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional scalloped potatoes. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal, offering the creamy, cheesy goodness of the classic version but with the added goodness of fresh zucchini. This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to use up an abundance of summer zucchini from your garden or the local farmers’ market.
Imagine the aroma of bubbling cheese, the tender slices of zucchini, and the savory goodness of a well-seasoned creamy sauce. Visualize yourself taking a forkful of this comfort food, savoring the creamy texture and the burst of flavor in every bite. Let’s dive into creating this cheesy scalloped zucchini dish together.
Ingredients:
A Collection of Ingredients for Cheesy Scalloped Zucchini
- 4-5 medium-sized zucchinis, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing the baking dish
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Creating Delicious Cheesy Scalloped Zucchini
1. Preparing the Zucchini:
- Wash and trim the zucchinis. Slice them into thin rounds, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
2. Seasoning the Zucchini:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced zucchini, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together to ensure the zucchini is evenly coated with the seasonings.
3. Layering the Zucchini:
- Grease a baking dish (9×9 inch or a similar size) with butter. Arrange a layer of seasoned zucchini slices in the bottom of the dish.
4. Adding Cheese:
- Sprinkle a layer of grated Parmesan cheese and shredded cheddar cheese over the zucchini slices.
5. Repeating Layers:
- Continue layering zucchini, Parmesan cheese, and cheddar cheese until all the zucchini is used up, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Preparing the Sauce:
- In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream and chicken or vegetable broth. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling. Remove it from the heat.
7. Pouring the Sauce:
- Carefully pour the warm cream and broth mixture evenly over the layered zucchini and cheese in the baking dish. Ensure that the liquid reaches all the layers.
8. Baking:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Browning the Top:
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
10. Garnishing and Serving: – If desired, garnish the cheesy scalloped zucchini with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Serve it hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
Elevate Your Cheesy Scalloped Zucchini Experience
Tips:
- To ensure that the zucchini cooks evenly, try to slice the rounds uniformly. A mandoline slicer can be handy for this.
Variations:
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses to create your own unique flavor profile. Gruyère, Swiss, or mozzarella can all be great options.
Pairing Suggestion: Serve your cheesy scalloped zucchini alongside grilled chicken, roasted meats, or as a side dish for a holiday feast. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread.
Storage and Enjoyment: Leftover cheesy scalloped zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until it’s heated through to enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness once again.
Cook’s Note: Cheesy scalloped zucchini is a testament to the deliciousness of fresh, seasonal produce. As you savor each creamy, cheesy bite, appreciate the versatility of zucchini and how it can transform into a comforting side dish. Share it with family and friends, explore different variations, and relish the satisfaction of creating a healthier version of a classic favorite.
