Gratin de Courgettes de Mamie

292cd374

Gratin de courgettes de Mamie is a beloved French comfort dish that transforms simple zucchinis into a warm, cheesy, and creamy bake. With tender slices of courgette (zucchini), a hint of garlic, herbs, béchamel or cream, and melted cheese on top, this classic dish is straight from the countryside — rustic, nourishing, and full of love.

⏱️ Prep Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

🍳 Equipment

Large skillet or sauté pan
9×9-inch baking dish or oval gratin dish
Knife & cutting board
Grater
Whisk (if making béchamel)

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

4 medium zucchinis (courgettes), thinly sliced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
3 large eggs
½ cup heavy cream or crème fraîche
¼ cup milk
½ cup grated Gruyère or Emmental (plus extra for topping)
2 tbsp Parmesan (optional, for extra sharpness)
1 tsp dried thyme or Herbes de Provence
Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional: pinch of nutmeg

🧄 Ingredient Notes

Zucchinis: Slice thinly and pre-sauté or salt to remove excess moisture.
Cheese: Gruyère is traditional, but Emmental, Comté, or a sharp cheddar work too.
Cream: Full-fat cream or crème fraîche makes this rich and traditional.
Eggs: Help bind everything into a custard-like base.

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Pre-Cook the Zucchini

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté 2–3 minutes until translucent.
Add sliced zucchini, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Sauté for 10–12 minutes, until softened and liquid has mostly evaporated.
Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Make the Custard Base

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, milk, a pinch of nutmeg (optional), and half of the grated cheese.
Add salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the Gratin

Preheat oven to 375°F / 190°C.
Lightly grease a gratin or baking dish.
Layer the sautéed zucchini mixture evenly.
Pour the egg-cream mixture over the top.
Sprinkle remaining cheese (and Parmesan, if using) evenly across the surface.

4. Bake

Bake for 30–40 minutes, until golden brown and set in the center.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

5. Serve

Serve warm with crusty bread or as a side to roasted meats or fish.
Also delicious cold the next day!

🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per serving – approx.)

Calories: 280
Protein: 10g
Fat: 22g
Carbs: 9g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 300mg

💡 Tips & Variations

🧺 Tips from Mamie

Avoid watery gratin: Salt and drain zucchini slices before cooking if they’re very juicy.
Let it rest: Just like lasagna, the gratin firms up as it cools slightly.
Use stale bread crumbs: Sprinkle on top with cheese for extra crunch.