This Butternut Squash Gratin combines tender slices of squash with a rich and creamy sage-infused sauce, topped with golden, bubbly parmesan cheese. It’s a luxurious side dish that’s both simple and sophisticated, perfect for everything from casual dinners to holiday feasts. The creamy layers of butternut squash and cheese create a melt-in-your-mouth experience, while the sage adds a hint of earthy warmth. Serve it fresh out of the oven, and watch as it becomes the star of your dining table. Whether you’re a squash enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this dish is bound to impress.
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 your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and soft, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a paste. Gradually whisk in the vegetable stock, ensuring no lumps form.
- Pour in the heavy whipping cream and add the sage leaves, pepper, and onion powder (if using). Simmer the sauce gently for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Arrange half of the butternut squash slices in an overlapping pattern in a greased baking dish. Pour half of the cream mixture over the squash and sprinkle with half of the parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining squash, cream mixture, and parmesan.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped chives if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal per serving | Servings: 6
A Cozy and Comforting Dish
Butternut Squash Gratin is a classic dish that brings together the best of autumn’s bounty and culinary creativity. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and golden top, this gratin is more than just a side dish it’s a celebration of comfort food at its finest. Whether served at a festive holiday dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, it has the power to bring warmth and joy to the table.
Why Butternut Squash?
Butternut squash is a versatile ingredient that shines in both savory and sweet recipes. Its natural sweetness and tender texture make it a perfect candidate for a gratin. Rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, it’s a nutritious choice that balances indulgence with health benefits. When cooked, its smooth, creamy consistency makes it ideal for layering with decadent sauces and cheeses.
In this recipe, butternut squash is paired with a sage-infused cream sauce, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and savory. Sage, with its earthy and slightly peppery profile, enhances the flavor of the squash without overpowering it. Combined with the richness of heavy cream and the nuttiness of parmesan cheese, the result is a dish that feels both luxurious and approachable.
The Role of Sage and Parmesan
Sage is one of those herbs that instantly evokes feelings of fall and comfort. Its aroma is distinct and pairs beautifully with creamy dishes, especially those featuring squash or root vegetables. By simmering the sage in the cream sauce, the dish captures its essence, infusing the entire gratin with a subtle herbal undertone.
Parmesan cheese, with its sharp and nutty flavor, plays a dual role in the dish. It enhances the savory elements of the gratin while forming a golden, bubbly crust when baked. This crust adds a delightful contrast to the soft layers underneath, making each bite a textural delight.
Customizing the Gratin
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. While the base recipe is a classic combination of butternut squash, cream, sage, and parmesan, there’s plenty of room for customization. Here are a few variations you might consider:
- Add Proteins: Incorporate crumbled bacon or pancetta for a smoky twist.
- Introduce Other Vegetables: Add thinly sliced potatoes, sweet potatoes, or even parsnips for a multi-layered gratin.
- Experiment with Cheese: Swap out parmesan for gruyere, cheddar, or a mix of your favorite cheeses to create new flavor profiles.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based cream and cheese substitutes, along with a dairy-free butter alternative, for a vegan-friendly version.
A Perfect Dish for Every Occasion
Butternut Squash Gratin is as versatile as it is delicious. It’s a wonderful side dish for a variety of meals, pairing beautifully with roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or pork. Its creamy consistency also complements lighter mains such as baked salmon or grilled tofu.
For vegetarians, this dish can easily take center stage when paired with a fresh salad and crusty bread. Its rich flavors and hearty nature make it satisfying enough to serve as a main course. During the holiday season, it’s an elegant addition to any festive spread, offering a touch of warmth and indulgence that guests are sure to appreciate.
A Comforting Classic with Health Benefits
While this gratin is undeniably indulgent, it also offers several nutritional benefits. Butternut squash is a powerhouse of vitamins, including vitamin A, which supports eye health, and vitamin C, which boosts immunity. Its fiber content aids digestion, and its natural sweetness means you can achieve bold flavors without relying on added sugars.
The use of sage adds more than just flavor; this herb is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Parmesan cheese, though often considered indulgent, provides a good source of calcium and protein, making this dish a balanced choice when enjoyed in moderation.
Tips for Perfecting Your Gratin
To achieve the best results, keep these tips in mind when preparing your Butternut Squash Gratin:
- Slice Uniformly: Ensuring the squash slices are of even thickness allows for even cooking and prevents some layers from becoming overdone while others remain undercooked.
- Choose Fresh Sage: Fresh sage leaves impart a more robust flavor than dried alternatives. If fresh sage isn’t available, adjust the quantity of dried sage to avoid overpowering the dish.
- Bake with Care: Cover the dish during the initial baking phase to allow the squash to tenderize in the creamy sauce. Uncover it for the final stages to achieve a golden, crispy top.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the gratin to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking helps the layers settle, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall texture.
Conclusion:
Butternut Squash Gratin is more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition that bridges the gap between rustic charm and gourmet elegance. Its layers of flavor and texture create a dish that’s both familiar and exciting, making it a beloved choice for home cooks and food enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re preparing it for a quiet family dinner or a grand holiday gathering, this gratin promises to deliver comfort and joy with every bite. With its blend of creamy squash, aromatic sage, and melted parmesan, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.