Cheesy Scalloped Zucchini
Any dish that’s gratinéed or scalloped seems like it’s far too much trouble for a weeknight, but this recipe proves otherwise.
Cheesy Scalloped Zucchini is incredibly simple, unbelievably flavorful, and ready in just 15 minutes.
The method is genius — no stovetop sauce, no complicated layers, and no fuss.
A shallow sheet pan and your oven’s broiler do all the magic, giving you a golden, bubbling, cheesy side dish that pairs with absolutely anything.
This quick casserole-style zucchini bake will become a recipe you crave.
Whether you’re preparing a holiday dinner, a weeknight meal, or a quick veggie side, it delivers perfect results every time.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter, softened (for greasing)
- 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
How to Make Cheesy Scalloped Zucchini
1. Preheat the Broiler
Place an oven rack about 6 inches below the broiler and turn the broiler to high.
Grease a shallow 9×13-inch baking dish or rimmed sheet pan generously with softened butter.
2. Prepare the Zucchini
Thinly slice the zucchini and season with salt and pepper.
Arrange the slices evenly across the prepared pan in a slightly overlapping layer.
3. Broil to Soften
Place the pan under the broiler and cook just until the squash begins to soften — about 4 minutes.
This jump-starts the cooking process.
4. Make the No-Cook Cream Sauce
While the zucchini broils, whisk together the following in a bowl:
- heavy cream
- dried thyme
- garlic powder
- fresh Parmesan
- all-purpose flour
Whisk until smooth. This mixture will thicken beautifully in the broiler without needing a stovetop roux.
5. Assemble the Dish
Pour the cream mixture evenly over the softened zucchini.
Sprinkle the grated Gruyere cheese over the top, then add a layer of panko breadcrumbs for crispiness.
6. Broil to Perfection
Return the pan to the oven and broil for another 4–5 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden, bubbling, and crisp around the edges.
7. Serve
Remove from the oven and allow it to stand for 2–3 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy perfection!
Tips & Variations
- Add protein: Mix in cooked shredded chicken or crispy bacon.
- Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the cream mixture.
- Swap cheeses: Try mozzarella, fontina, or sharp cheddar.
- For crispier topping: Drizzle the breadcrumbs lightly with melted butter before broiling.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- To reheat: Broil or bake at 350°F until warm and bubbly.
Enjoy this fast, simple, and incredibly delicious Cheesy Scalloped Zucchini — the perfect quick side dish!