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French Onion Zucchini Bake Recipe

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4 from 71 reviews

  • Author: Alice
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This French Onion Zucchini Bake is a comforting casserole featuring tender zucchini, sweet caramelized onions, savory herbs, and melted cheeses inspired by classic French onion flavors. It’s a delicious vegetarian side dish or a light main meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 4 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

Cooking Fats and Oils

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Seasonings and Broth

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Cheeses and Toppings

  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick during baking.
  2. Caramelize Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the butter and olive oil. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20–25 minutes until they are deeply golden and caramelized, developing rich, sweet flavors.
  3. Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme and cook for about 30 seconds to release their aromas without burning.
  4. Simmer Broth and Sauce: Pour in the broth and Worcestershire sauce, then simmer the mixture for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors and reduce slightly.
  5. Cook Zucchini: Add the thinly sliced zucchini to the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes until just slightly softened but not mushy, preserving some texture.
  6. Season: Season the vegetable mixture with salt and black pepper to taste, stirring well to combine all flavors.
  7. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the cooked mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  8. Add Cheese and Toppings: Evenly sprinkle the shredded Gruyère and mozzarella cheeses over the top. Then, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle this mixture over the cheeses to create a crunchy, golden crust.
  9. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
  10. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes to set before serving, allowing flavors to meld and making it easier to slice.

Notes

  • Take your time caramelizing the onions; this step is crucial for developing the dish’s characteristic deep, sweet flavor.
  • Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep the recipe vegetarian-friendly.
  • Gruyère cheese can be substituted with Swiss cheese if desired.
  • Avoid overcooking the zucchini before baking to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully as a side with roasted chicken, steak, or grilled fish.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Find it online: https://myhomemadecooking.com/french-onion-zucchini-bake-recipe/