Zucchini-Carrot Au Gratin
A comforting zucchini and carrot gratin with melted cheese and savory broth, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests with its warm, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, cover sliced carrots with water.
- Bring water to a boil and cook carrots about 3 to 5 minutes or until just tender; drain.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place sliced zucchini in a greased 9 x 13-inch glass baking dish.
- Place cooked carrots over zucchini.
- Distribute small pieces of butter evenly over carrots.
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, and grated cheese evenly over vegetables.
- Pour chicken broth evenly over the top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, until cheese is browned and vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or using a creamy cheese like Fontina instead of Gruyere or Cheddar. You can also substitute the zucchini with yellow squash if desired. To save time, pre-slice the vegetables and store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble. This dish can easily be adapted with different herbs or spices to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Zucchini-Carrot Au Gratin makes a delightful side dish, especially alongside roasted meats or grilled chicken. It pairs beautifully with Garlic Roast Chicken or can be served alongside a fresh salad for a light meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, then warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini-Carrot Au Gratin contains roughly 94 calories, with 5g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (118% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2258mg per serving (98% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Just assemble it up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
While Gruyere and Cheddar are excellent choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Mixing cheeses can also enhance the dish's creaminess and taste.
Can I add protein to this au gratin?
Absolutely! You can incorporate cooked chicken or even some crumbled bacon for added flavor and protein. If you choose to add meat, be sure to adjust the baking time slightly to ensure everything is heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).