Name: Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 butternut squash; 5 tbsp salted butter; 3 cloves garlic; salt and freshly ground black pepper; ½ cup plain panko bread crumbs; ½ cup parmesan; ½ tsp thyme; ¼ tsp sage; ¼ cup Fresh Parsley

This Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin recipe is a perfect side dish for any occasion. The combination of sweet butternut squash, savory parmesan, and crispy breadcrumbs creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. The added herbs provide a fresh note that complements the richness of the dish. It's a simple recipe that can impress your guests or family.

Photos of Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin Recipe

Butternut squash may not be a staple in every household, but it's worth seeking out for this recipe. It's a winter squash that has a sweet, nutty taste similar to a pumpkin. If you're not sure where to find it, it's typically located in the produce section of the supermarket. Panko bread crumbs are also used in this recipe. They are Japanese breadcrumbs that are larger and lighter than traditional breadcrumbs, resulting in a more crispy texture.

Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin Ingredients

Butternut squash: This is the star of the dish. Its sweet and nutty taste pairs well with the savory components of the recipe.

Salted butter: Used to sauté garlic and coat the squash before baking. It adds richness to the dish.

Garlic: Adds a fragrant, savory note that complements the sweet squash.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper: These basic seasonings enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.

Plain panko bread crumbs: They provide a crispy texture contrast to the soft, baked squash.

Parmesan: A hard, granular cheese that adds a strong savory flavor.

Thyme: An herb that adds depth of flavor.

Sage: Another herb that pairs well with squash and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Fresh parsley: Used as a garnish. It adds a fresh note to the rich gratin.

One reader, Amara Damico says:

This parmesan butternut squash gratin recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The crispy parmesan topping adds a delightful crunch, and the tender squash melts in your mouth. It's a perfect side dish for any occasion. Highly recommended!

Amara Damico

Techniques Required for Making Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin

How to prepare the butternut squash: Peel the butternut squash, cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and then slice it into thin, even slices.

How to melt butter and garlic: Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to infuse the butter with the garlic flavor.

How to make the bread crumb mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, parmesan, thyme, and sage. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of the melted butter and garlic mixture over the panko mixture, then toss to evenly coat.

How to brush the butter and garlic mixture over the squash: Use a pastry brush to evenly distribute the remaining butter and garlic mixture over the arranged butternut squash in the baking dish.

How to bake the gratin: Bake the butternut squash gratin in a preheated oven at 375°F for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the squash is tender. If the topping is not browned, increase the heat to 425°F and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

How to garnish and serve: Sprinkle the finished gratin with fresh parsley and serve it warm.

How To Make Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin

Slices of butternut squash are coated with parmesan, panko, herbs and garlic to make this squash gratin, a unique side dish that’s great for fall.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 50 minutes

Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1butternut squash,(2½ lb), ends trimmed, peeled, halved and seeded then sliced into ½ inch thick slices
5tbspsalted butter
3clovesgarlic,minced
salt and freshly ground black pepper
½cupplain panko bread crumbs
½cupparmesan,finely grated
½tspthyme,dried
¼tspsage,dried
¼cupfresh parsley,chopped

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray then arrange squash in pan, slightly overlapping them.
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then reduce heat to low, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Remove from heat.
In a mixing bowl toss together bread crumbs, parmesan, thyme, sage and season lightly with salt and pepper. Drizzle 2 tablespoon of the butter garlic mixture over panko mixture then toss to evenly coat.
Brush remaining butter and garlic mixture over squash in baking dish, then season squash with salt and pepper.
Sprinkle bread crumb mixture evenly over top. Bake in preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes until tender. Then, if topping is not browned, increase heat to 425 degrees F and bake for 5 minutes longer.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 192.85kcal
Fat: 13.10g
Saturated Fat: 8.15g
Trans Fat: 0.39g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.44g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.48g
Carbohydrates: 14.61g
Fiber: 2.08g
Sugar: 2.14g
Protein: 6.06g
Cholesterol: 33.87mg
Sodium: 272.28mg
Calcium: 208.95mg
Potassium: 333.69mg
Iron: 1.00mg
Vitamin A: 561.03µg
Vitamin C: 21.44mg

Crucial Technique Tip for a Perfect Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin

When preparing the butternut squash, make sure to peel it thoroughly and remove all the seeds before slicing. This will ensure a smoother texture and better absorption of the garlic butter mixture. Additionally, when baking, keep an eye on the gratin. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from burning while the squash becomes tender.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Delicious Gratin

Prep ahead: Chop and peel the butternut squash in advance to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cut squash: Consider using pre-cut butternut squash to eliminate the need for peeling and chopping, saving you time and effort.

Multi-task: While the gratin is baking, use that time to prepare other elements of your meal to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Organize ingredients: Before you start cooking, gather all the ingredients and utensils you'll need to streamline the cooking process.

Invest in quality tools: Quality kitchen tools such as a sharp chef's knife and a reliable peeler can make prepping the squash quicker and easier.

Opt for a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly and evenly slice the butternut squash, saving time and effort compared to manual slicing.

Streamline cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking cleanup, making the entire process more efficient.

Batch cooking: Consider making a larger batch of the gratin and freezing individual portions for future quick and easy meals.

Plan your steps: Review the recipe and plan your steps in advance to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process.

Invest in a good peeler: A high-quality peeler can make the task of peeling the butternut squash quicker and more efficient.

Substitute Ingredients For Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin Recipe

parmesan - Substitute with grated pecorino: Pecorino cheese has a similar salty and nutty flavor to parmesan, making it a suitable substitute for this gratin recipe.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter, providing a similar richness and flavor to the dish.
panko bread crumbs - Substitute with regular bread crumbs: If panko bread crumbs are not available, regular bread crumbs can be used as a substitute for a similar crispy texture in the gratin topping.
thyme - Substitute with rosemary: Rosemary can be used as a substitute for thyme, providing a slightly different but complementary herb flavor to the dish.
sage - Substitute with marjoram: Marjoram can be used as a substitute for sage, offering a similar earthy and slightly sweet flavor to the gratin.
parsley - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a substitute for parsley, adding a mild onion-like flavor and vibrant color to the dish.

Presentation Tips for a Delightful Butternut Squash Gratin

Elevate the plating: Carefully arrange the butternut squash gratin on a large, white, oval-shaped plate, ensuring each slice is neatly stacked and presented with precision.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a few delicate, vibrant green parsley leaves over the gratin to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
Incorporate a drizzle: Create an elegant drizzle of balsamic reduction around the edge of the plate, adding a sophisticated touch and enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Utilize fine dining serveware: Present the gratin on a sleek, modern plate or platter, elevating the dining experience and showcasing the dish in a refined manner.
Add a touch of edible flowers: Place a small, carefully selected edible flower on top of the gratin to introduce a subtle, visually stunning element to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin

Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting and peeling the butternut squash.
Cutting board: Use a sturdy cutting board to safely chop the butternut squash and other ingredients.
Baking dish: A 13x9-inch baking dish is needed to bake the butternut squash gratin.
Saucepan: A small saucepan is used to melt the butter and cook the garlic.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is required to toss together the bread crumbs, parmesan, thyme, and sage.
Whisk: A whisk can be used to combine the melted butter and garlic in the saucepan.
Oven: The oven is used to bake the butternut squash gratin at 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Storing and Freezing Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin

Let the parmesan butternut squash gratin cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator:
- Transfer the cooled gratin to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate for up to 4-5 days.
- To reheat, place the gratin in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
To freeze:
- Portion the cooled gratin into individual servings or freeze the entire dish.
- Wrap the portions or dish tightly with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the package with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat, thaw the frozen gratin in the refrigerator overnight.
- Place the thawed gratin in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and the topping is crispy.
Note: The texture of the breadcrumb topping may slightly soften after freezing and reheating, but the overall flavor of the dish will remain delicious.

How to Reheat Leftover Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover parmesan butternut squash gratin in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. This will help retain moisture and prevent the top from browning too quickly. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the gratin is heated through.
For a quicker reheating method, use your microwave. Place a portion of the gratin in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the squash from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the gratin is heated through. Stir gently halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you want to restore some of the crispiness to the breadcrumb topping, place the reheated gratin under your oven's broiler for 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
For a stovetop method, place the leftover gratin in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the gratin is warmed through. This method works well if you want to add a little extra butter or cream to the dish to prevent it from drying out.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the gratin and restore the crispy topping. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), place a portion of the gratin in the basket, and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and the top is crispy.

Interesting Fact About Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin

Butternut squash is a good source of fiber, potassium, and several other key nutrients, making it a healthy addition to your diet.

Is Making Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this butternut squash gratin recipe is quite favorable. Butternut squash is an affordable and nutritious vegetable, and the additional ingredients are commonly found in most households. The dish offers a balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and cost-effective option for a family meal. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $10-$12, making it an economical choice. Overall Verdict: 8/10

Is Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin Healthy or Unhealthy?

This parmesan butternut squash gratin recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side:

Butternut squash is a nutritious vegetable, rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and minerals like potassium and magnesium
Garlic offers potential health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation
Herbs like thyme, sage, and parsley add flavor without excessive calories and provide some antioxidants

However, there are some less healthy components:

The recipe uses a significant amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat
Parmesan cheese, while offering protein and calcium, is also high in saturated fat and sodium
Panko bread crumbs add some refined carbohydrates and additional calories

To make this dish healthier, a few adjustments could be made:

Reduce the amount of butter used, or replace some of it with a healthier oil like olive oil
Use a smaller amount of parmesan cheese, or opt for a lower-fat cheese like part-skim mozzarella
Replace some of the panko bread crumbs with whole wheat bread crumbs or rolled oats for added fiber
Consider adding other vegetables to the dish, such as kale or spinach, to increase the nutrient density
Serve the gratin as a side dish alongside lean proteins and other non-starchy vegetables for a balanced meal

Editor's Opinion on the Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin Recipe

The parmesan butternut squash gratin recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The savory butter and garlic mixture infuse the squash with rich, aromatic notes, while the crispy panko and parmesan topping adds a satisfying crunch. The herbs bring a touch of earthiness, and the fresh parsley brightens the dish with its vibrant color and flavor. This gratin is a perfect side dish for any occasion, and its visual appeal makes it a standout on the table.

Enhance Your Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic and a hint of parmesan cheese, perfect for pairing with the savory butternut squash gratin.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed in a sweet and savory honey glaze, adding a pop of color and sweetness to complement the rich flavors of the butternut squash gratin.

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts roasted with balsamic vinegar for a tangy and caramelized flavor, providing a delicious contrast to the creamy and cheesy butternut squash gratin.

Delicious Alternatives to Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and flavorful mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect as a side dish for any meal.

Honey Balsamic Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed in a sweet and tangy honey balsamic sauce, a delicious and colorful side dish for any occasion.

Lemon Rosemary Roasted Chicken: Juicy and tender roasted chicken infused with the bright flavors of lemon and fragrant rosemary, a classic and comforting main course option.

Apple Cinnamon Crisp: Warm and comforting apple cinnamon crisp with a crunchy oat topping, a delightful dessert that's perfect for fall gatherings.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Rich and velvety tomato soup infused with the aromatic flavors of fresh basil, a comforting and satisfying dish for any time of year.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan and bake until golden and bubbly.

Bruschetta: Elevate the classic bruschetta by topping toasted baguette slices with a flavorful mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze. Serve as a light and refreshing appetizer option.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Apple Crisp: Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of baked apples, cinnamon, and oats in this delicious apple crisp. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

Why trust this Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful experience with its perfect blend of butternut squash, parmesan, and aromatic garlic. The combination of thyme and sage adds a depth of flavor, while the crispy panko bread crumbs and savory butter elevate the dish. The meticulous instructions ensure a golden-brown, tender gratin that will impress any palate. With the addition of fresh parsley, this dish promises a visually stunning and delicious addition to any meal.

Share your thoughts on this delicious Parmesan Butternut Squash Gratin recipe in the Recipe Sharing section of our forum.

FAQ:

How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

To make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, simply substitute the salted butter with a high-quality olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. This will provide the same rich flavor and ensure the dish remains vegetarian.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. After assembling the gratin, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake it, simply remove it from the refrigerator, allow it to come to room temperature, and then bake as directed in the recipe.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh ones in this recipe. However, keep in mind that dried herbs are more potent than fresh ones, so you'll need to use a smaller amount. As a general rule, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs called for in the recipe.

How do I know when the squash is tender and the gratin is ready?

You'll know the squash is tender and the gratin is ready when the top is golden brown and the squash is easily pierced with a fork. If the top is not browned after the initial baking time, you can increase the oven temperature to 425 degrees F and bake for an additional 5 minutes to achieve a golden crust.

Can I use a different type of squash for this recipe?

While butternut squash works beautifully in this recipe, you can also use other varieties of winter squash such as acorn squash or kabocha squash. Just be mindful that different types of squash may have varying cooking times, so adjust the baking time as needed to ensure the squash is tender and the gratin is cooked through.