Cheesy Scalloped Zucchini — The Light, Creamy Side Dish That Even Veggie Skeptics Love

🛒 What You’ll Need: Pantry Staples, Maximum Joy

Grab these cozy ingredients—you probably already have most:

Unsalted butter, softened (for greasing pan)

1 lb (450g) zucchini, thinly sliced (about 3 medium)

⅔ cup (160ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)

1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)

½ tsp garlic powder

½ cup (50g) Parmigiano-Reggiano, freshly grated (real Parm = better melt!)

1½ tbsp (10g) all-purpose flour (helps thicken the sauce)

½ cup (50g) Gruyère cheese, freshly grated (nutty, rich, melty perfection)

⅓ cup (30g) panko breadcrumbs (for that crispy golden top!)

Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

That’s it.

No eggs.

No milk.

Just real food, broiled into brilliance.

💡 Pro tip: Use a mandoline or sharp knife for even slices—cooks more evenly!

🔥 How to Make It: Step-by-Step, Bite-by-Bite

Let’s cook this like we’re making edible sunshine—one golden forkful at a time.

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Position oven rack 6 inches from the broiler.

Turn broiler to high.

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or rimmed sheet pan with softened butter.

Step 2: Broil the Zucchini

Arrange sliced zucchini in a single layer on the pan.

Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Broil 4 minutes, until just beginning to soften and edges are slightly browned.

👉 This removes excess moisture and prevents sogginess!

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

While zucchini broils:

In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, thyme, garlic powder, Parmesan, and flour until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble & Top

Pour sauce evenly over the warm zucchini.

Sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.

Top with panko breadcrumbs for crunch.

Step 5: Broil to Golden Perfection

Return to broiler and cook 4–5 minutes, watching closely, until:

Top is golden brown

Cheese is bubbly

Breadcrumbs are crisp

⚠️ Don’t walk away—the broiler works fast!

Step 6: Serve & Savor

Let cool 2–3 minutes (it’s lava-hot!).

Cut into squares or scoop with a spatula.

Serve warm—with grilled chicken, fish, or all by itself.

Bonus: Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or air fryer (never microwave!).

💡 Pro Tips for Next-Level Success