Ingredients:

  • 3 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2% recommended)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C / Gas Mark 5). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. (Optional) Toss zucchini with salt in a colander, let sit for 15-20 minutes. Rinse and pat dry.
  3. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
  4. Whisk in flour to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Add 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
  6. Arrange half of the zucchini slices in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the zucchini. Repeat with the remaining zucchini and cheese sauce.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs (if using) over the top.
  8. Bake for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving the Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake.