This Creamy Sage Butternut Squash Gratin is the perfect side dish for any fall or holiday gathering. Thinly sliced butternut squash is layered with a luscious cream sauce infused with garlic, shallot, and aromatic sage, then topped with golden, crispy parmesan. The contrast between the tender squash and the cheesy crust creates a delightful bite every time. Whether served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy dinner party, this gratin is sure to impress. Not only is it deliciously comforting, but it also brings vibrant color and elegance to the table. Its rich and savory flavors complement a variety of main dishes, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 lb (900g) butternut squash, peeled and sliced into 1/8 inch half-rounds
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 large shallot, minced
- 4 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable stock
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 15 sage leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 3 oz (100g) grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon chopped chives, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel and thinly slice the butternut squash into half rounds. When you reach the seeds, scoop them out and continue slicing the flesh, or reserve the bottom of the squash for another recipe.
- In a small saucepan, melt butter and sauté the minced shallot and chopped garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the flour and whisk to create a roux, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Gradually whisk in the vegetable stock, followed by the heavy whipping cream. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth, without boiling.
- Add pepper, onion powder, and sage leaves to the cream mixture. Stir well.
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with butter. Pour 1/3 of the cream mixture into the bottom of the dish, sprinkle lightly with parmesan cheese, and arrange the butternut squash slices in overlapping rows.
- Pour the remaining cream mixture over the squash. Cover the dish with parchment paper and aluminum foil.
- Bake covered for 20 minutes. Remove the cover, sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped chives, and serve hot. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 250 kcal per serving | Servings: 6
The Origins and History of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash belongs to the winter squash family and is believed to have originated in North America. It was cultivated by Native Americans for centuries before being introduced to Europe by explorers. The modern variety of butternut squash as we know it was developed in the 1940s by Charles Leggett in Massachusetts, who aimed to create a more flavorful and easier-to-handle squash. Its sweet, nutty flavor and velvety texture made it an instant hit, and it quickly became a staple ingredient in fall and winter cooking.
The name “butternut” reflects its buttery texture and slightly nutty flavor. It’s commonly used in soups, roasted vegetable dishes, and, of course, gratins. Its versatility and natural sweetness make it a popular choice for savory and sweet recipes alike.
Flavor Profile and Nutritional Benefits of Butternut Squash
Butternut squash has a naturally sweet, slightly nutty flavor with earthy undertones. Its smooth texture becomes incredibly tender when roasted or baked, making it perfect for creamy dishes like gratins. When combined with a rich cream sauce and melted parmesan, the squash’s sweetness is beautifully balanced with savory and umami notes.
From a nutritional standpoint, butternut squash is a powerhouse. It’s rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune function and skin health. Its vibrant orange color comes from beta-carotene, an antioxidant that promotes good vision and overall well-being. Additionally, butternut squash is a good source of fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness. It also contains potassium and magnesium, which contribute to heart health and muscle function.
The Role of Sage and Parmesan in Enhancing Flavors
Sage and parmesan are the perfect flavor companions for butternut squash. Sage, with its earthy, slightly peppery flavor, adds an aromatic warmth that complements the natural sweetness of the squash. It also brings a touch of herbal bitterness, balancing the richness of the cream and cheese. In this gratin, sage is infused into the cream sauce, allowing its flavors to permeate every layer of the dish.
Parmesan, on the other hand, provides a sharp, salty contrast that enhances the overall umami experience. Its nuttiness echoes the squash’s natural flavor, creating a harmonious blend. When baked, the parmesan topping becomes golden and crispy, adding a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy layers beneath. This combination of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet elements is what makes this gratin so irresistible.
A Holiday-Worthy Dish That Impresses
This Creamy Sage Butternut Squash Gratin is an excellent choice for holiday gatherings, whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any fall celebration. Its vibrant color adds a festive touch to the table, and its elegant presentation makes it suitable for special occasions. Unlike traditional potato gratins, this butternut squash version feels lighter and more flavorful, thanks to the natural sweetness of the squash and the aromatic sage-infused cream.
One of the great advantages of this gratin is that it can be prepared in advance. You can assemble the layers and refrigerate the dish until you’re ready to bake it, which is a huge timesaver during busy holiday preparations. It also pairs beautifully with roasted meats, poultry, or vegetarian main dishes, making it a versatile addition to any menu.
Customization Tips and Variations
This gratin is highly customizable, allowing you to adapt it to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Make It Vegan: Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based sauce for a dairy-free version. Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for that cheesy flavor.
- Add Protein: For a heartier dish, add cooked bacon bits, pancetta, or even shredded chicken between the layers.
- Herb Variations: While sage is the star of this recipe, thyme and rosemary also pair beautifully with butternut squash. You can experiment with different herb combinations to create unique flavor profiles.
- Cheese Choices: While parmesan is classic, Gruyère or aged cheddar would add a richer, nuttier flavor. A sprinkle of goat cheese or feta can also add a tangy twist.
- Breadcrumb Topping: For an extra-crispy topping, mix panko breadcrumbs with grated parmesan and sprinkle it over the gratin before baking.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover butternut squash gratin keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To store, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil or transfer the gratin to an airtight container. When reheating, cover the dish with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. This helps maintain the creamy texture without drying out the squash.
If you’re planning to freeze the gratin, it’s best to do so before baking. Assemble the layers in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding a little extra baking time.
Why You Should Try This Gratin
Creamy Sage Butternut Squash Gratin is a comforting, flavorful dish that celebrates the best of fall’s bounty. Its combination of creamy textures, aromatic sage, and crispy parmesan makes it a memorable side that will impress your guests. It’s also incredibly versatile, complementing a wide range of main dishes and fitting seamlessly into any holiday menu.
The dish’s ease of preparation, ability to be made ahead, and adaptability to different dietary needs make it a go-to recipe for busy cooks. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or enjoying a cozy weeknight meal, this gratin delivers on flavor, presentation, and satisfaction.
Conclusion:
Creamy Sage Butternut Squash Gratin is more than just a side dish it’s a celebration of fall flavors and comfort food at its finest. Its rich cream sauce, layered with tender squash and topped with crispy, golden parmesan, creates a delightful culinary experience that’s both satisfying and elegant. The warmth of sage and the sweetness of butternut squash bring a sense of nostalgia and coziness, perfect for chilly autumn evenings or festive holiday gatherings.
This gratin is also a testament to the versatility of butternut squash. Its naturally sweet, nutty flavor makes it the ideal canvas for savory, creamy dishes, and its vibrant color adds a beautiful visual appeal to any table. With its rich history, nutritional benefits, and adaptable nature, this gratin is a must-try for food enthusiasts and home cooks alike.