ADVERTISEMENT
Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
Position a rack in your oven about 6 inches from the broiler and heat the broiler on high. You don’t need to set a specific temperature; the broiler's heat will do all the work.
Grease a shallow 9x13-inch baking dish or a rimmed sheet pan with softened butter. This will prevent the zucchini from sticking and add a rich flavor to the dish.
Prepare the Zucchini:
Slice the zucchini thinly to ensure it cooks quickly and evenly. The thinner the slices, the better they will absorb the creamy sauce.
Arrange the zucchini slices on the prepared baking pan in a single layer. Season them generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the zucchini.
Broil the Zucchini:
Place the baking pan under the broiler and cook the zucchini for about 4 minutes, just until it begins to soften. The quick broiling will give the zucchini a head start in the cooking process and allow it to absorb the flavors of the sauce more effectively.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
While the zucchini is broiling, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, dried thyme, garlic powder, freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, and all-purpose flour. The flour helps thicken the sauce, while the parmesan adds a rich, savory depth.
Once the zucchini has softened, remove it from the oven and pour the cream mixture evenly over the slices. The sauce will start to seep into the zucchini, coating it in creamy goodness.
Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the freshly grated Gruyere cheese over the top of the zucchini and cream mixture. Gruyere melts beautifully and adds a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the zucchini.
For a delightful crunch, top the Gruyere with panko breadcrumbs. The breadcrumbs will toast under the broiler, creating a crispy contrast to the creamy zucchini.
Final Broil:
Return the baking dish to the oven and broil for another 4-5 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning — the goal is a perfect golden crust.
Serve:
Once broiled to perfection, remove the dish from the oven. Let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving. This will allow the sauce to set a bit and make serving easier.
Tips and Conclusion
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
