Jamie Oliver Courgette Gratin Recipe [GUIDE]

Jamie Oliver’s Courgette Gratin is a vibrant, comforting dish that brings together tender courgettes (zucchini) and a creamy, cheesy sauce. The courgettes are sliced thinly, then baked with a rich mixture of cream, cheese and often herbs like thyme or basil. The result is a decadent, golden-brown gratin that’s the perfect balance between the lightness of the courgette and the indulgence of the cheesy sauce.

It’s a simple, yet elegant side dish or even a main for those looking for something light but satisfying. What makes Jamie’s version stand out is his use of fresh, seasonal ingredients and a love for bold, simple flavors. The dish can easily be made vegetarian and it’s perfect for anyone looking to elevate their courgettes into something special.

Jamie Oliver Courgette Gratin Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For Jamie Oliver’s Courgette Gratin, you’ll need:

1. Courgettes (Zucchini) – The star of the dish, courgettes add a mild, slightly sweet flavor. You’ll need around 4 medium-sized ones which should give you enough for a hearty gratin.
2. Double Cream – This gives the gratin its luscious, creamy texture. You could also use a lighter cream but double cream really takes it to the next level.
3. Cheese – Jamie typically uses a blend of Parmesan for saltiness and a sharper flavor, along with mozzarella for that melty, gooey texture. You can adjust the ratios to your liking.
4. Garlic – A couple of cloves to give the gratin a fragrant depth of flavor.
5. Herbs – Fresh thyme or basil is often used but you can mix it up. The herbs elevate the flavors and add a nice aromatic touch.
6. Breadcrumbs – For that crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy courgettes underneath.
7. Butter – For greasing the baking dish and for a bit of extra richness.
8. Salt and Pepper – To taste, of course, to balance all the flavors.

Equipment Needed

• Ovenproof Dish – A medium-sized dish is best. This will help the gratin bake evenly, ensuring that the creamy sauce sets just right.
• Mandoline or Sharp Knife. You’ll need this to slice the courgettes into thin, even rounds. The thinner the slices, the better the gratin will cook through.
• Grater – For grating the Parmesan and mozzarella. You can also buy pre-grated cheese if you’re in a rush but fresh grating makes a huge difference in the flavor and texture.
• Mixing Bowl – To combine the cream, cheese and herbs.
• Baking Tray – If you’re worried about any cream bubbling over, a baking tray underneath the gratin dish will catch any drips.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Courgette Gratin

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 200°C (around 400°F). You want it hot enough to crisp up the breadcrumbs without overcooking the courgettes.
2. Prepare the Courgettes – Slice your courgettes into thin rounds, ideally about 1/8 inch thick. If you have a mandoline, use it for uniform slices. If not, just take your time with a sharp knife. Place the slices in a large bowl.
3. Garlic and Herbs – Finely chop your garlic and fresh herbs. Add them to the courgettes, then season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together to coat the courgettes with the garlic and herbs.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce. In a separate bowl, mix the double cream, grated Parmesan and half of the mozzarella. Stir in some more salt and pepper, then pour the mixture over the courgettes. Gently toss to combine, making sure all the courgettes are coated with the cream mixture.
5. Layer in the Dish. Butter your baking dish to prevent sticking, then layer the courgette mixture into it. You want to spread the courgettes out evenly, so they bake uniformly.
6. Add the Topping – Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top, followed by a generous dusting of breadcrumbs. This will give the gratin that crunchy, golden topping that everyone loves.
7. Bake – Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy and the courgettes are tender. You can even broil it for the last 2-3 minutes to get an extra crispy finish if you like.
8. Serve – Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You want to give it time to set, so it doesn’t fall apart when you serve it. It’s perfect as a side dish but also works wonderfully as a vegetarian main if you’re serving it with a salad or crusty bread.

What I Learnt

Making Jamie Oliver’s Courgette Gratin really opened my eyes to how simple ingredients can come together in such a delicious way. I had always thought of courgettes as a somewhat bland vegetable but they shine when treated this way. The cream, cheese and garlic transform them into a luxurious dish.

The balance of textures-creamy courgettes, gooey cheese and crispy breadcrumbs. makes every bite interesting. The flavor is rich without being overwhelming and the herbs give it a nice freshness. What I loved most was how adaptable the recipe is. You can tweak the ingredients to your liking, adding things like nutmeg, a touch of lemon zest or even swapping in different cheeses.

It’s also a great way to use up a glut of courgettes during the summer months, turning something simple into something special.

Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Courgette Gratin

Jamie Oliver’s Courgette Gratin is a fantastic, comforting dish but it’s always fun to add a personal twist. Here are some tweaks you can try, depending on what you’re in the mood for:

1. Cheese Variety: While Jamie’s recipe calls for Parmesan, you can mix it up with other cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda or even a sharp cheddar. These will give the gratin a richer, bolder flavor. If you want something creamier, add a bit of mascarpone or cream cheese to the sauce.
2. Herb Up: Jamie’s version uses thyme but if you like more depth, consider adding fresh rosemary or oregano. For a touch of freshness, basil or mint can bring an unexpected twist to the dish, especially if you’re serving it in summer.
3. Spice it Up: If you’re a fan of a little heat, add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce. It will complement the sweetness of the courgettes and the richness of the cheese. A dash of nutmeg can also elevate the creaminess and give it a cozy vibe.
4. Make It Meatier: If you want to make it heartier, layer in some cooked ground meat (like turkey or beef) or bacon for that savory, umami punch. Chicken or even leftover roast meats can be great additions.
5. Swap Courgettes for Other Veggies: Courgettes are the star here but you can mix things up with other summer vegetables like aubergine (eggplant), mushrooms or even sweet potatoes. These substitutions add more texture and flavor to the gratin.
6. Crispier Top: For a crunchier topping, you could mix some breadcrumbs with extra cheese, then sprinkle it over the top before baking. Adding a bit of melted butter or olive oil will help achieve that golden, crispy finish.

These small tweaks can give the dish a completely different vibe while keeping the core elements that make it so delicious!

Storage Tips For Leftovers

If you’ve got leftovers from Jamie Oliver’s Courgette Gratin (lucky you!), storing them properly ensures they’ll still taste great the next day. Here’s what to do:

1. Cool It Down: Let the gratin cool to room temperature before storing. This helps avoid moisture buildup inside the container which can make it soggy. Never store hot food directly in the fridge.
2. Airtight Containers: To keep it fresh, use airtight containers. This will lock in flavor and prevent it from picking up other smells from the fridge.
3. Freezing: You can freeze the gratin for up to 2-3 months if you want to keep it for longer. To do this, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil. When you’re ready to eat it, just bake it straight from frozen at a lower temperature (around 160°C/320°F) to heat through and crisp the top.
4. Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven for the best result. It will revive the crispy top and keep the texture closer to the original. If you’re in a rush, you can microwave it but it won’t have the same crispness.
5. Shelf Life: Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. After that, the courgettes and cream sauce can lose their freshness and start to become watery.

What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Courgette Gratin?

This dish is already pretty satisfying on its own but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal. Here are some ideas:

1. Simple Green Salad: A light, tangy salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes and a citrusy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the gratin. You could even add a handful of roasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch.
2. Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or some homemade focaccia is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce. The bread will soak up all the delicious flavors and add some texture contrast.
3. Grilled Meat: If you want to add some protein to your meal, grilled chicken, lamb or even steak pairs beautifully with the gratin. The rich flavor of the meat complements the soft, cheesy texture of the courgettes.
4. Roasted Veggies: You can never have enough veggies! Roast some carrots, sweet potatoes or parsnips with a touch of olive oil and thyme. These will enhance the dish’s rustic vibe while adding a bit of sweetness.
5. Eggs: For a vegetarian spin, try adding a poached egg or two on top of your gratin. The runny yolk mixes with the cheesy sauce, creating a rich, creamy contrast.
6. Wine Pairing: A light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, will complement the courgette’s delicate flavors. If you prefer red, a light Pinot Noir would be a great option.

FAQs

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Courgette Gratin Ahead Of Time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What Can I Use Instead Of Courgettes For This Gratin?

You can swap courgettes with other vegetables like aubergines (eggplants) or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Courgette Gratin Vegetarian?

Yes, the recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but you can easily add some protein like grilled chicken if you prefer.