This Creamy Baked Zucchini and Yellow Squash Gratin is a rich, savory vegetable dish made with layers of tender squash, aromatic sautéed onions, garlic, and a velvety cream sauce. Baked until bubbling and golden under a blanket of smoky gouda and parmesan, this recipe transforms humble squash into an indulgent, elegant side or even a standalone vegetarian meal. It’s warm, cozy, and full of flavor—a perfect addition to weeknight dinners or festive holiday meals.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
Every delicious bite of this gratin is worth the few simple steps it takes to prepare.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield
This recipe yields approximately 4 generous side dish servings or 2 large main servings.
Cuisine
Creamy Baked Zucchini and Yellow Squash Gratin belongs to American cuisine, specifically within the comfort food and vegetable-forward categories, with French-inspired gratin influences.
Ingredients
This recipe uses accessible, flavorful ingredients that balance richness with garden-fresh produce.
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1/2 onion, thinly sliced
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1 small zucchini, sliced into 1/8 to 1/4 inch rounds
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1 small yellow squash, sliced into 1/8 to 1/4 inch rounds
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2 large cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
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1 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme, crushed red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
Preheat the oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C) to ensure a crisp golden crust when baking.
Sauté onions and garlic
In an ovenproof skillet (cast iron works best), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until translucent and slightly browned. Add the minced garlic and sauté for one more minute until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t burn.
Create the cream base
Stir in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble for 2–3 minutes to begin thickening. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Add nutmeg if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add squash to the sauce
Fold in the zucchini and yellow squash rounds, making sure every slice is coated in the creamy mixture. Let them simmer in the sauce for 4–5 minutes to begin softening.
Top with gouda and bake
Sprinkle the smoked gouda evenly over the top of the squash. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling and the squash is fork-tender.
Rest and serve
Remove from the oven and let the gratin rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken and makes it easier to serve clean portions.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
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Calories: 330
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Protein: 12g
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Total Fat: 28g
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Saturated Fat: 17g
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Carbohydrates: 8g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 4g
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Sodium: 310mg
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Cholesterol: 85mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
The word “gratin” comes from the French term “gratter,” meaning “to scrape,” a reference to the crispy crust that forms on top of baked dishes. Gratin-style recipes date back to 18th-century France and have since evolved across Europe and North America, where vegetables, pasta, and meats are baked under creamy sauces and cheese toppings.
Zucchini and yellow squash, both summer vegetables, are widely available in American gardens and markets. Their mild, buttery flavor and tender texture make them ideal for absorbing creamy sauces and pairing with robust cheeses like gouda. The addition of smoked gouda to this traditional concept adds a modern twist and deep, savory complexity.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Combines comfort food richness with fresh seasonal vegetables
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Quick to assemble and bakes in under 30 minutes
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Can be served as a side or vegetarian main dish
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Smoked gouda adds a unique, satisfying flavor
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Uses one skillet for fewer dishes and easy cleanup
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Feels indulgent while being vegetable-centered
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Beautiful golden presentation, ideal for guests or special dinners
Health Benefits
Though rich and satisfying, this dish still offers several nutritional benefits, especially with the vegetable base.
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Zucchini and yellow squash are low in calories and high in antioxidants, fiber, and water content
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Onions and garlic support heart health and immune function
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Smoked gouda, though rich, provides calcium and protein
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Heavy cream adds fat for satiety but can be swapped for lighter alternatives
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Can be made gluten-free and keto-friendly with no additional adjustments
You can further enhance the nutritional profile by reducing the cheese or using half-and-half instead of cream, and increasing the volume of vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
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As a side dish for grilled or roasted meats such as chicken, steak, or pork
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As a vegetarian entrée served with crusty bread or a fresh salad
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Paired with baked fish for a light yet indulgent dinner
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As a warm brunch dish with poached eggs on top
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Added to a holiday spread next to stuffing or roasted root vegetables
Garnish with fresh thyme, chopped parsley, or microgreens for presentation and a burst of flavor.
Cooking Tips
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Use a mandoline slicer for evenly cut squash that cooks at the same rate
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Make sure to simmer the cream slightly before baking to help thicken the sauce
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Do not overcrowd the skillet—vegetables should be well coated but not fully submerged
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Taste the cream sauce before baking to adjust seasoning levels
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Let the gratin rest after baking to allow it to firm up slightly and serve neatly
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Always use an oven-safe skillet for stove-to-oven ease
Variations to Try
There are endless ways to adapt this gratin based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge.
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Substitute the squash with thinly sliced potatoes, sweet potatoes, or eggplant
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Use gruyere, white cheddar, fontina, or mozzarella in place of gouda
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Add chopped cooked bacon, pancetta, or sausage for a meaty variation
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Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables
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Use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives for a vegan version
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Spice it up with cayenne, chili flakes, or chipotle powder
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Create a breadcrumb topping with panko and butter for added crunch
Conclusion
Creamy Baked Zucchini and Yellow Squash Gratin is a dish that proves vegetables can be the star of the plate. It’s rich and comforting, yet balanced with the light freshness of summer squash. With every bite, you’ll taste the buttery onions, velvety sauce, and melting ribbons of cheese layered over tender slices of squash. Whether you’re a fan of gratins or new to them, this recipe is bound to become a favorite for its ease, flavor, and flexibility. Keep it in your rotation for dinner parties, holiday feasts, or cozy weeknight meals that feel just a little more special.
FAQ
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the entire dish and refrigerate before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
2. Can I freeze this gratin?
This dish is best fresh, but you can freeze leftovers. Store in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best texture.
3. What if I don’t have smoked gouda?
Try regular gouda, gruyere, mozzarella, or even white cheddar. Each brings a unique flavor.
4. Can I add breadcrumbs on top?
Yes, a breadcrumb topping adds texture. Mix panko with melted butter and sprinkle before baking.
5. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free—no flour or thickeners are used.
6. Can I make it lighter?
Yes, use half-and-half or a light cream, and reduce the cheese slightly. It won’t be as rich but still delicious.
7. How do I store leftovers?
Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or oven within 3 days.
8. Can I use only zucchini or only yellow squash?
Yes, you can use either one or both depending on availability. The mix offers color contrast and balance.
9. What’s the best skillet to use?
A cast iron or oven-safe stainless steel skillet is perfect for searing and oven baking in one pan.
10. Is this recipe suitable for keto or low-carb diets?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in fats, making it compatible with keto plans.