Julia Child’s Zucchini Gratin Recipe
Julia Child’s Zucchini Gratin is a classic French-inspired baked dish featuring tender zucchini and onions cooked in butter, then topped with a savory mixture of Parmesan cheese and crispy breadcrumbs for a golden, flavorful crust.
- Author: Dylan
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Vegetables
- 4 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
Dairy & Fats
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other
- Prepare the vegetables: Begin by washing and thinly slicing the zucchinis. Finely chop the onion to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Cook the zucchini and onion: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchinis and chopped onion, cooking gently until they are softened but not browned, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the gratin: Transfer the cooked zucchini and onions evenly into a baking dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of grated Parmesan cheese over the top, and then evenly distribute the breadcrumbs to form a crisp topping.
- Bake the gratin: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy and the gratin is bubbling gently around the edges.
- Serve: Remove the gratin from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld and the gratin set for easier portioning.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper or nutmeg over the vegetables before baking.
- If you prefer a crunchier topping, you can toast the breadcrumbs lightly in butter before sprinkling.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality.
- This dish pairs beautifully as a side to roasted meats or as a vegetarian main with a fresh salad.
Keywords: Zucchini gratin, Julia Child recipes, baked vegetable dish, Parmesan zucchini, French gratin