Cheesy Scalloped Zucchini Recipe

🌸 Introduction

Cheesy Scalloped Zucchini is a creamy, layered casserole that combines tender zucchini slices with a rich cheese sauce, baked until bubbly and golden. It’s a fantastic way to use up summer zucchini while offering a lighter alternative to heavy potato casseroles. With its creamy texture and cheesy topping, it pleases both veggie lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike. Perfect as a comforting side dish or even as a vegetarian main, this recipe balances nutrition and indulgence in every bite.

📝 Ingredients

Main Dish

4–5 medium zucchinis (thinly sliced into rounds)
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 small onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
½ cup heavy cream (optional, for richness)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Cheese Mixture

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
½ cup mozzarella cheese (shredded, for stretchiness)
¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated, for topping)

Optional Garnish

Fresh parsley or chives
Breadcrumbs for crunch

👩‍🍳 Instructions & Methods

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Wash and thinly slice zucchini into uniform rounds (use a mandoline for even slices).
Lay slices on paper towels, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

Heat olive oil/butter in a saucepan.
Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent.
Stir in flour, cooking for 1 minute to make a roux.
Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth.
Add Dijon mustard, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Stir in cheddar and mozzarella (reserve some for topping).

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
Layer zucchini slices in the dish (like scalloped potatoes).
Pour some cheese sauce over the layer.
Repeat layering zucchini and sauce until all are used.
Top with reserved cheese and Parmesan.

Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for a crispy top.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with parsley or chives.
Serve hot as a side dish with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as a vegetarian centerpiece.

📜 History

Scalloped potatoes originated in Europe, particularly in France and England, where cream and cheese were used to bake layered root vegetables.
As zucchini gained popularity in kitchens worldwide, cooks adapted this method to create a lighter, healthier scalloped dish.
The dish became especially common in the United States during summer, when zucchini is abundant and home cooks look for creative ways to enjoy the harvest.

🌿 Benefits

Low-carb alternative – Replaces starchy potatoes with light zucchini.
Rich in nutrients – Zucchini provides vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.
Cheesy satisfaction – A healthier way to enjoy comfort food flavors.
Versatile – Can be flavored with herbs, different cheeses, or breadcrumbs.
Family-friendly – Appeals to picky eaters thanks to the creamy cheese sauce.

🏛 Formation (Structure of the Dish)

Vegetable Base – Thin zucchini slices.
Creamy Binder – Roux-based cheese sauce.
Layering – Alternating zucchini and sauce.
Cheese Top – Golden, bubbly crust.
Optional Garnish – Herbs or breadcrumbs for freshness and crunch.

❤️ Lovers of Cheesy Scalloped Zucchini

Vegetable lovers seeking a creamy dish.
Low-carb and keto eaters who miss scalloped potatoes.
Cheese enthusiasts who love gooey, bubbly casseroles.
Families looking for a comforting yet nutritious side dish.
Home gardeners with an abundance of zucchini to use up.

🎯 Conclusion

Cheesy Scalloped Zucchini is a dish that bridges comfort and health. It transforms humble zucchini into a creamy, satisfying, cheesy bake that feels indulgent but remains light and nutrient-rich. Ideal for holidays, family dinners, or weeknight meals, it is versatile, nourishing, and absolutely delicious.

💖 For lovers of cheesy comfort food with a healthier twist, this scalloped zucchini is a timeless recipe that proves vegetables can be both wholesome and decadent.