Are you ready to elevate your dinner table with a dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive? Look no further than this Savory Butternut Squash Gratin! With its creamy layers of tender butternut squash, rich Gruyère cheese, and a golden breadcrumb topping, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for cozy gatherings or as a standout side at your holiday feast, this gratin is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Dive into this recipe and discover how simple ingredients can create an unforgettable culinary experience!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Carefully peel the butternut squash using a sharp vegetable peeler. Slice the squash into thin, uniform rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick, ensuring even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, chopped fresh thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk the mixture until well blended.
- Layer the sliced butternut squash in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping each slice to create an even, attractive arrangement.
- Pour the seasoned cream mixture evenly over the squash, ensuring all slices are coated and moistened.
- Sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese generously over the top of the squash, covering the entire surface.
- In a small skillet, melt the butter and mix with breadcrumbs until they are golden and evenly coated. Scatter the buttered breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and let the gratin rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the cream to set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish with additional fresh thyme leaves if desired, and serve hot as a delicious side dish or vegetarian main course.
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: Select a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, unblemished skin for the best flavor and texture.
- Uniform Slices: When slicing the squash, aim for uniform thickness (about 1/4 inch) to ensure even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper to the cream mixture for a subtle warmth.
- Breadcrumb Variation: Feel free to experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as panko for added crunch or seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the gratin to rest for 10 minutes after baking helps the layers set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall texture.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving can elevate the dish's presentation and flavor.Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 80mg
