A classic holiday side dish, Butternut Squash Gratin brings creamy, cheesy comfort to your table. Tender butternut squash cubes baked in a luscious cream sauce and topped with a golden, cheesy crust create a festive dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, poultry, or a holiday vegetarian spread. This recipe is simple yet impressive, making it perfect for holiday dinners, special occasions, or cozy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp ground nutmeg
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare squash: Peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash. Place in a large mixing bowl.
Make cream mixture: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Heat until warm but not boiling.
Combine squash and cream: Pour the warm cream mixture over the cubed squash and stir gently to coat.
Layer in baking dish: Transfer squash and cream mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle Gruyère evenly over the top, followed by Parmesan.
Bake: Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbly and squash is tender.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh thyme before serving. Serve hot as a side dish.

Tips for Perfect Gratin

Cut squash evenly: Uniform cubes ensure even cooking.
Cheese selection: Gruyère provides a nutty, melty texture; Parmesan adds a sharp crust.
Pre-cook squash: For quicker cooking, roast or steam squash cubes for 5–10 minutes before baking.
Prevent burning: Cover with foil during the first part of baking to avoid over-browning.

Variations

Herb twist: Add rosemary or sage for deeper holiday flavors.
Nutty topping: Sprinkle with toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
Cream alternative: Substitute half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free version.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside roasted turkey, chicken, or beef for a holiday feast.
Pairs well with cranberry sauce, stuffing, or roasted root vegetables.
Great for potlucks and family gatherings; reheats well.

Fun Facts

Butternut squash is rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and fiber, making it both nutritious and naturally sweet.
The gratin technique originated in French cuisine, typically layering vegetables or potatoes with cream and cheese.
Baking in a shallow dish allows for a golden crust while keeping the inside creamy.

This Butternut Squash Gratin is a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and comforting flavors that bring warmth to any table. Whether for holidays or weeknight dinners, it’s an elegant yet easy side dish everyone will love.

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