This Easy Cheesy Zucchini and Yellow Squash Au Gratin is a warm and comforting dish! With layers of fresh zucchini and yellow squash, covered in creamy cheese, it’s a veggie delight.
I love how cheesy it is! It feels fancy, but really, it’s a simple way to enjoy your veggies. Pair it with some bread, and you’ve got a yummy meal. Who knew eating healthy could be so tasty? 🥒🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: Both are star ingredients! You can use other summer squashes like pattypan or even eggplant if you’re feeling adventurous.
Cheeses: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for strong flavor, but feel free to mix it with Monterey Jack or gouda for a different taste. For lactose-sensitive diners, lactose-free cheese works well.
Heavy Cream: This is optional, but it adds richness. If you want a lighter version, substitute with more milk or use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, though it may alter the flavor a bit.
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Creamy Cheese Sauce?
The cheese sauce can make or break your au gratin. Here are the steps to ensure it’s creamy and not lumpy:
- Cook the flour well with the onions to avoid a raw flour taste.
- Whisk in the milk slowly to ensure a smooth texture. Stir constantly to keep it from clumping.
- Remove from heat before adding cheese to prevent it from becoming grainy.
Trust me, taking these steps helps create that dreamy, creamy sauce you want in this dish!
Easy Cheesy Zucchini and Yellow Squash Au Gratin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 2 medium yellow squashes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or 2%)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Cooking spray or additional butter for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, giving you a total of around 45 minutes to enjoy this cheesy delight. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, prepare your baking dish by greasing it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cooking the Onions and Garlic:
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
3. Making the Cheese Sauce:
Next, sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook out any raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, making sure there are no lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
4. Adding the Cheeses:
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and all of the grated Parmesan cheese until they are melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and if you like, a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
5. Layering the Zucchini and Squash:
Now, place the sliced zucchini and yellow squash evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer them nicely so that every slice gets some cheesy goodness!
6. Pouring the Sauce:
Pour the cheesy sauce over the squash slices, spreading it evenly to cover them all. It’s time to make it really cheesy—sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top!
7. Baking to Perfection:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and bubbly, and a fork easily pierces the squash.
8. Finishing Touches:
Once out of the oven, let the au gratin cool for about 5 minutes before serving it warm. This little wait makes it easier to serve and enjoy!
And there you have it—your Easy Cheesy Zucchini and Yellow Squash Au Gratin! Enjoy as a comforting side or a light main dish. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Zucchini and Yellow Squash Au Gratin
Can I Use A Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and Parmesan are delicious, you can substitute with other cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a dairy-free cheese if you prefer a non-dairy option. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change a bit.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. If the dish has dried out, adding a splash of milk can help restore creaminess.
Can I Prepare This Au Gratin Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day in advance! Cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What If My Zucchini and Squash Are Watery?
If you’re concerned about excess moisture from the zucchini and squash, you can pat them dry with paper towels after slicing. Alternatively, you can also slightly pre-cook the slices by roasting them in the oven for about 10 minutes to remove some moisture before adding them to the dish.
