Imagine a dish that combines the sweet earthiness of butternut squash, the delicate flavor of leeks, and the subtle tartness of apples, all melted together in a creamy, cheesy embrace. This Apple Butternut Squash and Leek Gratin is not just a side dish—it's a culinary experience that transforms ordinary vegetables into a spectacular masterpiece that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds. Whether you're looking to impress at a holiday gathering or simply craving a luxurious vegetable dish, this gratin promises to elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 cup leeks, sliced
- 2 cups apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated cheese (Gruyère or similar)
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the vegetables: Peel and dice the butternut squash into 1/2-inch cubes. Slice the leeks, removing the tough green tops and roots, and rinse thoroughly to remove any dirt. Peel and slice the apples into thin, uniform pieces.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the leeks until they become soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Layer the ingredients in the prepared baking dish: Start with a layer of butternut squash, followed by a layer of sautéed leeks, then a layer of apple slices. Sprinkle each layer with a pinch of thyme, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, grated Gruyère cheese, and remaining thyme. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered vegetables, ensuring all ingredients are well-coated.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the vegetables are tender.
- Remove from the oven and let the gratin rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot as a side dish or light main course, garnishing with additional fresh thyme if desired.
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm butternut squash and crisp apples for the best texture and flavor.
- Make sure to slice vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- Thoroughly rinse leeks to remove any hidden dirt between their layers.
- Use high-quality Gruyère cheese for the most rich and complex flavor profile.
- Don't skip letting the gratin rest after baking—this helps the dish set and makes serving easier.
- For a golden, crispy top, broil the gratin for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking if needed.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 55mg
