How to Make Gratin de Courgettes: A Classic French Courgette Bake

 

--- published by foodie Parmod.

Looking for a light yet comforting dish that captures the essence of French home cooking? The Gratin de Courgettes – or courgette gratin – is a rustic, creamy, and cheesy bake that transforms humble courgettes into something truly delicious.

Ideal as a vegetarian main or a flavourful side, this dish is simple to prepare and packed with Mediterranean charm. Whether you're serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it with a crusty baguette on a summer evening, this gratin never disappoints.

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🥒 What Is Gratin de Courgettes?

Gratin de Courgettes is a traditional French baked dish featuring:

Thinly sliced courgettes (zucchini)

Cream or milk

Cheese (often Gruyère or Parmesan)

Sometimes garlic, onion, or herbs for extra flavour

It’s baked until golden and bubbling, creating a tender vegetable centre with a crisp, cheesy topping.

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🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)

4 medium courgettes, sliced thinly

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves of garlic, minced

150ml double cream (or crème fraîche)

100g grated Gruyère or mature cheddar

50g grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

1 tbsp olive oil or butter

Salt and black pepper to taste

A pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)

Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

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👨‍🍳 How to Make Gratin de Courgettes – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or gas mark 6. Grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter or olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Courgettes

Thinly slice the courgettes using a knife or mandoline. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan and sauté the onion and garlic for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the courgette slices and cook for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release some of their water. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Tip: Don’t overcook – the courgettes should still hold their shape.

Step 3: Assemble the Gratin

Transfer the courgette mixture into the greased baking dish. Pour the cream evenly over the vegetables. Sprinkle the grated Gruyère (or cheddar) on top. If using, finish with Parmesan for an extra crispy crust.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling. You can grill it for the last few minutes for extra crispiness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the gratin rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley if desired.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Gratin de courgettes pairs beautifully with:

Roast chicken or grilled fish

A fresh green salad

Herbed rice or crusty bread

As part of a vegetarian spread with ratatouille or lentils

It’s also a wonderful way to use up a glut of summer courgettes from the garden or market.

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💡 Recipe Tips

Use a mix of courgettes and yellow squash for added colour.

Swap cream for crème fraîche for a tangier, lighter taste.

Add breadcrumbs or crushed nuts on top for an extra crunchy crust.

Make ahead and reheat – this gratin keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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📝 Final Thoughts

The Gratin de Courgettes is a celebration of simple ingredients done well. With its creamy texture, golden crust, and fresh garden flavours, this dish brings a touch of Provence to your table with minimal fuss.

Whether served as a main or side, this French courgette gratin is always a hit – elegant, hearty, and so easy to make.

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--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.

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