Butternut Squash Casserole (Gratin)

Butternut Squash Casserole (Gratin) is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. This delightful dish combines layers of tender butternut squash with a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic and herbs. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, it brings warmth and heartiness to your table. The cheesy topping adds a golden, bubbly finish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy cheese, thyme, and garlic creates an irresistible taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this casserole is a breeze to make.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this dish fits right in.
• Vegetarian Delight: A great choice for meat-free meals while still being hearty and satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness of this gratin.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Butternut Squash Casserole (Gratin), gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A shallow dish allows for even cooking and browning of the gratin.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures easy slicing of the butternut squash.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Whisk: Helps blend cream and spices perfectly for an even flavor throughout.

Ingredients

For this delightful Butternut Squash Casserole (Gratin), you will need:

• 400ml / 1¾ cups double cream/whipping cream (no half and half or single cream)
• 2 bay leaves
• a few thyme sprigs
• 1 garlic clove (crushed)
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1kg / 2lbs large butternut squash (peeled and thinly sliced)
• 100g / 1 cup mature white Cheddar or your favourite cheese (grated)

How to Make Butternut Squash Casserole (Gratin)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350F/180C.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream with nutmeg, crushed garlic clove, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, remove it from heat and let it infuse for 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash

1. Peel, deseed, and thinly slice the large butternut squash.
2. Layer half of the sliced squash in a large buttered baking dish.
3. Pour half of the herb-infused cream over this first layer of squash.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Add another layer of remaining butternut squash slices on top.
2. Cover with the remaining infused cream mixture.
3. Cover the baking dish with tin foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese Topping

1. After 30 minutes, remove the foil from the baking dish.
2. Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the top layer of squash.
3. Bake uncovered for an additional 20-30 minutes until cheese is melted and golden brown with bubbling cream around the edges.

Enjoy your delicious Butternut Squash Casserole (Gratin) as a comforting main course!

How to Serve Butternut Squash Casserole (Gratin)

Butternut squash casserole (gratin) is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, these serving suggestions will help elevate your culinary experience.

Pair with a Crisp Salad

• A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the casserole.

Serve with Grilled Meats

• Grilled chicken or pork adds a delightful contrast to the creamy butternut squash gratin, making for a hearty meal.

Accompany with Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce of the casserole and adds a satisfying texture.

Add Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables enhance the autumnal feel of this dish and provide additional nutrients and flavors.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing your butternut squash casserole with freshly chopped parsley or thyme can brighten up the presentation and add a burst of freshness.

How to Perfect Butternut Squash Casserole (Gratin)

To ensure your butternut squash casserole (gratin) turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose the right squash: Look for firm and heavy butternut squash without any blemishes for the best flavor.
• Slice evenly: Thin, uniform slices help ensure that the squash cooks evenly, resulting in a creamy texture throughout.
• Don’t skip the infusion: Allowing the cream to infuse with bay leaves, garlic, and thyme intensifies the flavors and makes your dish more aromatic.
• Use quality cheese: Opt for mature white Cheddar or your favorite cheese to achieve a rich, melty topping that enhances the overall taste.
• Bake uncovered at the end: Removing the foil during baking allows the cheese to brown beautifully while keeping the casserole bubbly.
• Let it rest: Allowing your gratin to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely for easier serving.

Best Side Dishes for Butternut Squash Casserole (Gratin)

Pairing side dishes with your butternut squash casserole (gratin) can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement its creamy richness.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting addition to any meal.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, these provide a delicious contrast in texture.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and feta offers freshness alongside your rich casserole.
4. Sauteed Green Beans: Quick sautéed green beans seasoned with salt and pepper add vibrant color and crunch.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings brightness and acidity to balance out the creaminess of your dish.
6. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly by adding a touch of sweetness and complements fall flavors beautifully.
7. Pumpkin Soup: For an entirely autumn-themed meal, serve alongside a smooth pumpkin soup as an appetizer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Butternut Squash Casserole (Gratin), avoiding common pitfalls can lead to a more delicious dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong cream: Always use double cream or whipping cream. Half and half or single cream won’t give you the desired richness.
• Overcooking the squash: Thinly slicing the butternut squash helps it cook evenly. If slices are too thick, they may not soften properly.
• Skipping the infusion step: Allowing the cream to infuse with thyme, garlic, and bay leaves enhances flavor. Don’t rush this step!
• Not layering properly: Ensure you layer the squash and cream evenly. This helps in even cooking and flavor distribution.
• Baking uncovered too soon: Covering the casserole at first helps it cook through without drying out. Remove foil only when ready to brown the cheese.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Item: Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Duration: Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Butternut Squash Casserole (Gratin)

• Item: Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty aluminum foil.
• Duration: Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Butternut Squash Casserole (Gratin)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Place on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream if needed, stir until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Butternut Squash Casserole (Gratin), you’re not alone. Here are some common queries:

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for varied flavors.

How do I know when it’s done?

The casserole is ready when the cheese is golden brown and bubbly around the edges.

Can I make Butternut Squash Casserole (Gratin) ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this Butternut Squash Casserole (Gratin) is completely vegetarian-friendly!

What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

Butternut Squash Casserole (Gratin) is a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any meal. Its creamy texture and cheesy topping make it irresistible. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or add-ins like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor!