Creamy Butternut Squash Gratin: A Cozy Delight Recipe

Butternut squash gratin is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Picture this: creamy, cheesy goodness layered with tender butternut squash, all bubbling away in your oven. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make you feel like a gourmet chef, even if you’re wearing sweatpants and a stained T-shirt.

This dish isn’t just about the flavors; it’s about those cozy nights when friends gather around the table, laughter fills the air, and everyone is too busy devouring their plates to remember their diets. Butternut squash gratin is perfect for Thanksgiving feasts or any gathering where comfort food reigns supreme.

I remember the first time I made butternut squash gratin for my family—everyone was so impressed that they completely ignored my burnt garlic bread.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Butternut Squash: Look for firm squashes with smooth skin for the best flavor and texture.

• Heavy Cream: This adds richness; feel free to substitute with half-and-half if you prefer a lighter option.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh for optimal flavor—it melts beautifully and creates a lovely crust.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring out an aromatic depth that pairs well with the sweetness of the squash.

• Thyme: Fresh thyme elevates the dish with herby notes; dried thyme works too if it’s what you have on hand.

• Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the salt level in your dish while adding rich flavor.

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

How to Make Butternut Squash Gratin

To create this scrumptious gratin, follow these easy steps:

Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter so nothing sticks and it bakes evenly.

Slice the Butternut Squash: Peel and slice the butternut squash into thin rounds. Aim for uniform slices—this helps them cook evenly.

Sauté Garlic and Thyme: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt one tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds, then stir in thyme.

Create the Cream Mixture: Pour heavy cream into the pan with garlic and thyme. Bring to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally; this melds all those lovely flavors together.

Layer It Up!: In your prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced butternut squash followed by half of your cream mixture. Repeat this layering process until everything is used up.

Add Cheese and Bake: Top with grated Parmesan cheese to form that irresistible crust. Bake uncovered for about 45 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly; let cool slightly before serving.

Now you have an incredible butternut squash gratin that will be loved by all, even those who claim not to enjoy vegetables!

This amazing butternut squash gratin recipe is a warm hug in food form. To elevate your cooking experience, here are three tips to keep in mind while preparing this dish.

Choose the Right Squash: Select firm, heavy butternut squash for optimal freshness and flavor. A personal favorite of mine is the one that feels like a weightlifter’s dumbbell.

Layer with Cheese Wisely: Use a mix of cheeses for depth; Gruyère adds nuttiness while Parmesan gives it that golden crust. I’ve learned the hard way that too much cheese can overshadow the squash’s flavor.

Don’t Skip the Nutmeg: Just a pinch of nutmeg rounds out the flavors beautifully. I once forgot this step and my guests kept asking what was missing!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting the butternut squash until tender, then layer it with cheese and cream. This method ensures even cooking and maximum flavor infusion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different cheeses like cheddar or add herbs like thyme for extra flair. You can also use cream alternatives if you’re feeling adventurous.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to retain its creamy texture.

I remember the first time I made butternut squash gratin for my family. They were skeptics at first, but their smiles after one bite were priceless!

FAQ

Can I use frozen butternut squash for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure it’s thawed and well-drained before using.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option.

How do I prevent my gratin from being watery?

Make sure to drain excess moisture from the squash after cooking it before layering.

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Butternut Squash Gratin

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Butternut squash gratin is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings and festive gatherings. This creamy, cheesy dish layers tender butternut squash with aromatic garlic and fresh thyme, creating an irresistible flavor profile that will warm your heart and delight your guests. Easy to prepare, it’s a stunning centerpiece for any meal—ideal as a side or a vegetarian main dish. Experience gourmet comfort in your own kitchen!

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Side
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs butternut squash, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp butter. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then stir in thyme.
3. Add heavy cream to the pan and gently simmer while stirring.
4. Layer half of the butternut squash in the prepared dish, followed by half of the cream mixture. Repeat the layers.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and bake uncovered for about 45 minutes or until golden brown.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Choose firm butternut squash for best flavor. Mix cheeses for additional depth; consider Gruyère for nuttiness. A pinch of nutmeg enhances the overall taste—don't skip it!