Julia Child’s Zucchini Gratin Recipe
Julia Child’s Zucchini Gratin is a classic French-inspired side dish featuring tender sautéed zucchini layered with sweet onions, rich butter, creamy cheese, and topped with crispy golden breadcrumbs. This comforting gratin combines simple ingredients with expert technique to create a flavorful, creamy, and crunchy casserole perfect for any meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 3 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4 inch thick rounds
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
Dairy & Fats
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese or Swiss cheese
Others
- 1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Vegetables: Wash and slice the zucchinis into 1/4 inch thick rounds. Peel and thinly slice the onion so it will cook evenly with the zucchini.
- Sauté Zucchini and Onions: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they turn translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Add the sliced zucchini and sauté until just tender, about 5 more minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Gratin: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread half of the sautéed zucchini and onions evenly in a buttered baking dish. Sprinkle half of the grated cheese over the first layer. Add the remaining zucchini and onions and top with the remaining cheese.
- Add Breadcrumb Topping: Evenly sprinkle fresh breadcrumbs over the top layer of cheese to create a crunchy golden crust.
- Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Place the gratin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it rest a few minutes before serving to set.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for best melting and flavor.
- Gruyère is traditional, but Swiss or mild cheddar can be substituted.
- For extra richness, a splash of cream can be added to the zucchini mixture before assembling.
- Serve as a side dish with roasted meats or as a vegetarian main with a salad.
- Breadcrumbs can be toasted beforehand for a crunchier topping.
Keywords: Zucchini Gratin, Julia Child, French side dish, baked vegetable casserole, Gruyère cheese gratin, vegetable bake
Find it online: https://famdishes.com/julia-childs-zucchini-gratin-recipe/
