Creamy Butternut Squash Gratin: A Cozy Comfort Dish

Butternut squash gratin is the cozy hug your taste buds have been waiting for. Imagine creamy layers of sweet, nutty squash enveloped in a bubbly, cheesy blanket, with crunchy breadcrumbs providing a delightful contrast. It’s like autumn on a plate, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave comfort food that warms your heart and fills your belly.

This dish isn’t just about taste; it’s about memories. Picture yourself gathered around the dinner table with loved ones, laughter echoing as you share stories over this indulgent gratin. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, butternut squash gratin will be the star of the show, creating delicious moments you’ll cherish forever.

Ingredients for Butternut Squash Gratin

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Butternut Squash: Choose a firm squash with a smooth skin. This is the star ingredient, so pick one that feels heavy for its size.

• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the gratin. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half.

• Gruyère Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and provides a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the squash.

• Breadcrumbs: Use fresh or panko breadcrumbs for that perfect crunchy topping. They create a delightful contrast in texture.

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic goodness. You can’t go wrong with garlic!

• Thyme: Fresh thyme adds an earthy note that’s simply irresistible. Dried thyme works too—just use less!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Butternut Squash Gratin

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, grab a baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks—because no one likes a stubborn gratin.

Step 2: Prepare the Squash

Peel and cube about two pounds of butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniformity; we want even cooking!

Step 3: Cook the Squash

In a pot of boiling salted water, cook those lovely cubes of butternut squash until fork-tender, about eight to ten minutes. Drain them well and set aside while you gather your other ingredients.

Step 4: Mix It All Together

In a large bowl, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper. Add in your cooked butternut squash and gently toss until everything is coated in that creamy goodness.

Step 5: Layer It Up

Transfer half of the butternut squash mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the Gruyère cheese on top, then add the remaining squash mixture followed by more cheese—because cheese is life!

Step 6: Add Topping & Bake

Top everything off with breadcrumbs mixed with a little olive oil for added crunch. Bake in your preheated oven for about twenty-five to thirty minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.

Now comes the fun part: transfer your luscious gratin to plates or serve family-style right from the baking dish! Drizzle with extra cream if you’re feeling indulgent for that perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it—a delightful butternut squash gratin that’s sure to charm everyone at your table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting the butternut squash until tender, while simultaneously prepping your cheese sauce. Once both are ready, layer them together in a baking dish and finish with breadcrumbs for that perfect crispy topping.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the cheeses based on what you have at home. Adding spices like nutmeg or a dash of cayenne can give your butternut squash gratin an extra kick. Toss in some sautéed onions or garlic for more flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover butternut squash gratin in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that the top stays crisp.

Sometimes when I serve this dish, I see my friends’ eyes light up as they take their first bite—it’s like watching them discover a hidden treasure!

FAQs :

What is butternut squash gratin?

Butternut squash gratin is a delicious and creamy baked dish made primarily from butternut squash, cheese, and often layered with breadcrumbs. This comforting meal typically includes seasonings like garlic, thyme, and nutmeg. It’s perfect for fall gatherings or holiday dinners, providing a flavorful alternative to traditional potato gratins.

How do you prepare butternut squash for gratin?

To prepare butternut squash for gratin, start by peeling the squash and removing its seeds. Cut it into even slices or cubes to ensure uniform cooking. You can roast the pieces beforehand for added flavor before layering them in your baking dish. Combine them with cream, cheese, and seasonings to create the perfect base for your gratin.

Can you make butternut squash gratin ahead of time?

Yes, you can make butternut squash gratin ahead of time. Assemble the dish without baking it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it in the oven until hot and bubbly. This makes it a convenient option for busy hosts during special occasions.

What can I serve with butternut squash gratin?

Butternut squash gratin pairs wonderfully with various main dishes. You could serve it alongside roasted chicken, grilled pork chops, or a hearty salad. The creamy texture of the gratin complements savory meats beautifully while adding a seasonal touch to your meal.

Conclusion for Butternut squash gratin :

In summary, butternut squash gratin is a delightful and versatile dish that brings warmth to any table. By combining fresh ingredients like butternut squash with rich cheeses and aromatic herbs, you create an unforgettable comfort food experience. Whether enjoyed during the holidays or as a side dish throughout the year, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and family alike. Embrace the flavors of fall with this delicious creation!

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Butternut Squash Gratin

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Butternut squash gratin is a comforting and creamy dish that combines sweet, nutty butternut squash with rich Gruyère cheese, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer. Perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday feasts, this indulgent gratin delivers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will warm your heart and fill your belly.

• Author: Cathy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
• 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Boil cubed butternut squash in salted water for 8-10 minutes until fork-tender. Drain.
3. In a large bowl, mix heavy cream, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add cooked squash and toss to coat.
4. Layer half of the mixture in the baking dish. Top with half of the cheese. Repeat layers.
5. Combine breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, consider roasting the butternut squash before boiling. - Substitute Gruyère with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella based on preference. - Feel free to add spices such as nutmeg or cayenne for extra warmth.