Butternut Squash Gratin
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!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Side
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp butter. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then stir in thyme.
- Add heavy cream to the pan and gently simmer while stirring.
- Layer half of the butternut squash in the prepared dish, followed by half of the cream mixture. Repeat the layers.
- 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!