why make this recipe
French Onion Zucchini Bake is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions and melty cheese with fresh zucchini. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy vegetables while still feeling indulgent. Not only is it tasty, but it’s also simple to prepare. Whether you need a side dish or a main vegetarian meal, this bake will satisfy everyone at the table.
how to make French Onion Zucchini Bake
Ingredients :
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 8 cups zucchini, seeded and sliced thin (about 2 medium)
- 2 large yellow onions, sliced thinly
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 2 cups gruyere cheese, shredded and divided
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced onions, kosher salt, pepper, and sugar. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, fresh thyme, and beef broth. Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and mix well. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the zucchini is slightly softened.
- Transfer half of the zucchini and onion mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded gruyere cheese. Add the remaining zucchini and onion mixture on top, followed by the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with additional fresh thyme if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this rich and flavorful zucchini bake!
how to serve French Onion Zucchini Bake
Serve this dish warm as a side to grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as a hearty main course for a vegetarian meal. It pairs well with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
how to store French Onion Zucchini Bake
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm it in the oven until heated through.
tips to make French Onion Zucchini Bake
- For extra flavor, try adding some grated Parmesan cheese along with the gruyere.
- If you prefer a lighter version, use less cheese or substitute with a lower-fat cheese.
- Make sure to slice the zucchini and onions thinly for even cooking and a great texture.
variation
You can add other vegetables, like mushrooms or bell peppers, to the mix for added flavor and nutrition. For a gluten-free version, simply omit the Worcestershire sauce or look for a gluten-free brand.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other cheeses instead of gruyere?
A: Yes, you can substitute gruyere with cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or fontina for different flavors.
Q: Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be easily reheated, making it great for meal prep.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it right before serving.
French Onion Zucchini Bake
A delightful dish combining caramelized onions, melty cheese, and fresh zucchini, perfect as a side or a hearty vegetarian main.
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 8 cups zucchini, seeded and sliced thin (about 2 medium)
- 2 large yellow onions, sliced thinly
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 2 cups gruyere cheese, shredded and divided
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced onions, kosher salt, pepper, and sugar. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, fresh thyme, and beef broth. Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet and mix well. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the zucchini is slightly softened.
- Transfer half of the zucchini and onion mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded gruyere cheese. Add the remaining zucchini and onion mixture on top, followed by the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with additional fresh thyme if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding some grated Parmesan cheese along with the gruyere. Ensure to slice the zucchini and onions thinly for even cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian