Jamie Oliver Courgette Gratin Recipe

Jamie Oliver Courgette Gratin is a simple yet comforting side dish made with tender slices of courgette baked in a creamy sauce and topped with golden, bubbling cheese. It’s light enough to serve with grilled meats yet rich enough to stand on its own as a vegetarian main.

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 45–50 minutes from start to finish. In this guide, I’ll show you how to prepare it step by step, along with helpful tips to achieve a creamy interior and beautifully crisp top.

What Makes This Recipe Worth Making

• Simple Ingredients – Everyday vegetables and pantry staples.
• Creamy but Balanced – Rich texture without feeling heavy.
• Great Way to Use Courgettes – Perfect for seasonal produce.
• Family-Friendly Dish – Mild and comforting flavour.
• Versatile Side – Pairs well with meat, fish, or vegetarian meals.
• Impressive Presentation – Golden, bubbling top looks inviting.

What Is Jamie Oliver Courgette Gratin?

Jamie Oliver Courgette Gratin is a baked dish made by layering sliced courgettes with cream or a light béchamel sauce and cheese. It is then baked until tender inside and golden on top, creating a comforting, oven-finished vegetable dish.

Jamie Oliver Courgette Gratin Ingredients List

• 3–4 medium courgettes, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 200ml double cream (or single cream for lighter option)
• 80g grated cheddar or Gruyère cheese
• 30g grated Parmesan
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh thyme leaves

How to Prepare Jamie Oliver Courgette Gratin – Simple Steps

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C fan). Lightly grease a baking dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Add the Courgettes

Add sliced courgettes to the pan and cook for 5–6 minutes until slightly softened. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Add Cream

Pour in the cream and allow it to simmer gently for 2–3 minutes so flavors combine.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spoon the mixture into the prepared dish. Sprinkle grated cheddar or Gruyère evenly on top, followed by Parmesan.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbling. The top should be lightly crisp.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Let the gratin rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set slightly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Jamie Oliver Courgette Gratin

• Not Pre-Cooking Courgettes – They release water during baking.
• Overloading with Cream – Can make the dish too heavy.
• Using Low Heat – Proper browning requires adequate oven temperature.
• Skipping Rest Time – Resting helps improve texture.

Delicious Dishes to Serve With Jamie Oliver Courgette Gratin

• Roast Chicken – A classic pairing.
• Grilled Salmon – Light and balanced combination.
• Steak – Complements the creamy texture.
• Simple Green Salad – Adds freshness to the meal.

Expert Tips to Get This Jamie Oliver Courgette Gratin Right

• Slice Courgettes Evenly – Ensures uniform cooking.
• Use Good-Quality Cheese – Strong cheese adds more flavour.
• Season Carefully – Cheese already adds saltiness.
• Bake Until Golden – Do not remove too early.
• Add Fresh Herbs at the End – Brightens flavour.

How to Add More Flavour to Courgette Gratin

• Add Fresh Basil – Enhances aroma.
• Include a Pinch of Nutmeg – Adds subtle warmth.
• Mix in Mozzarella – Creates extra creaminess.
• Sprinkle Breadcrumbs on Top – Adds crunchy texture.

How to Adjust Courgette Gratin for Kids

For children, keep seasoning mild and avoid strong herbs if needed. Cutting courgettes into smaller slices can make the texture more appealing. Using a milder cheese helps maintain a gentle flavor.

Best Way to Store Courgette Gratin Leftovers

• Refrigeration Method – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Avoid Freezing – Cream-based dishes may separate.
• Cool Before Sealing – Prevents excess moisture buildup.

Best Ways to Reheat Courgette Gratin

• Oven Reheating – Bake at 170°C for 10–15 minutes until hot.
• Microwave Option – Heat in short intervals.
• Cover with Foil – Prevents over-browning during reheating.

Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~320 kcal
• Protein: ~12g
• Carbohydrates: ~10g
• Fat: ~27g
• Fiber: ~3g

FAQs

Why is my courgette gratin watery?

Courgettes naturally contain a lot of water. To prevent a watery gratin, lightly sauté the sliced courgettes first to release excess moisture. You can also sprinkle them with a little salt and let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat them dry before cooking.

Can I make courgette gratin ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the gratin up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when ready to serve for the best golden top and creamy texture.

What cheese works best for courgette gratin?

Gruyère, cheddar, or Parmesan work very well because they melt smoothly and provide strong flavour. A combination of cheeses gives both creaminess and a crisp, golden crust.

Can I make courgette gratin without cream?

Yes, you can substitute cream with milk thickened with a small amount of flour or use a light béchamel sauce. Greek yoghurt can also be used for a lighter, slightly tangy alternative.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Courgette Gratin is a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy fresh vegetables. The creamy texture and golden top make it comforting without feeling overly heavy.

Similar recipes to add to your list

• Jamie Oliver Carrot And Leek Soup
• Jamie Oliver Apple Crumble

Print