Butternut Squash Gratin with Cheese & Sage
This Butternut Squash Gratin is a rich, creamy, and cheesy side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of butternut squash. Infused with garlic, sage, and nutmeg, this gratin is the perfect cozy dish for fall and winter meals. The layers of tender squash, bubbling cheese, and aromatic herbs make it a fantastic addition to any holiday table or a comforting weeknight dinner.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
This looks like a delicious butternut squash gratin! Here’s a full recipe to make a similar dish:
Butternut Squash Gratin with Cheese & Sage
Ingredients:
1 medium butternut squash, peeled, halved, and thinly sliced
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
½ cup whole milk
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp ground nutmeg
1 cup grated Gruyère or Parmesan cheese (or a mix)
½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional for extra creaminess)
1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped (plus extra leaves for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or oil.
Prepare the sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1-2 minutes. Add heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir well and let it warm (do not boil). Remove from heat.
Layer the squash: Arrange the butternut squash slices in an overlapping pattern in the greased baking dish.
Add cheese & sauce: Pour the cream mixture evenly over the squash. Sprinkle Gruyère (or Parmesan) and mozzarella on top.
Bake: Cover loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
- Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with fresh sage leaves and serve warm.
Tips for Making the Best Butternut Squash Gratin
✅ Slice Evenly – Thin, uniform slices (about ⅛-inch) ensure even cooking. A mandoline slicer can help with precision.
✅ Use the Right Cheese – Gruyère, Parmesan, and mozzarella create a rich, melty texture. Feel free to experiment with cheddar or gouda for extra depth.
✅ Pre-cook if Needed – If short on time, lightly pre-roast or steam the butternut squash for 5-7 minutes before layering to speed up baking.
✅ Infuse the Cream – Simmering garlic, sage, and nutmeg in the cream before pouring it over the squash enhances flavor.
✅ Let it Rest – Allow the gratin to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking so the sauce thickens before serving.
Q&A
❓ Can I make this ahead of time?
✅ Yes! Assemble the gratin up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding 5-10 extra minutes if straight from the fridge.
❓ How do I store leftovers?
✅ Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best results.
❓ Can I freeze butternut squash gratin?
✅ It’s possible, but the texture may change slightly. Freeze before baking, then bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 50-55 minutes.
❓ What can I serve with it?
✅ This gratin pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or a fresh green salad for balance.
❓ Can I make it dairy-free?
✅ Yes! Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Butternut Squash Gratin with Cheese & Sage – Nutrition Info (Per Serving, based on 6 servings)
Calories: ~280 kcal
Protein: ~7g
Carbohydrates: ~20g
Fat: ~20g
Saturated Fat: ~12g
Fiber: ~3g
Sugar: ~4g
Sodium: ~350mg
Calcium: ~250mg