When the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving comforting dishes that celebrate the bounty of fall. Enter this Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin, a delightful way to showcase one of the season’s stars. The moment you slice into a roasted butternut squash, its sweet, nutty aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
This dish transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors—golden squash layered with garlicky butter, a crunchy breadcrumb topping, and a sprinkle of Parmesan that ties it all together. It’s not just easy to prepare; it’s versatile enough to shine as a side at your holiday gatherings or as a cozy weeknight main.
Don’t let the elegant appearance fool you; this gratin comes together in a breeze, so you’ll have more time to enjoy those precious moments with family and friends. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and bring some warmth to your home!
Why Choose Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin?
Comforting Layers: Each bite offers a warm embrace, layering sweet butternut squash with rich garlic butter and a golden breadcrumb topping that adds delightful crunch.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for holiday gatherings or intimate dinners, this dish guarantees to impress guests and satisfy family alike.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, you’ll find yourself whipping this up in no time.
Versatile Meal: Serve it as a side or a fulfilling main course that pairs beautifully with various proteins.
Seasonal Appeal: Highlighting the flavors of fall, this gratin makes excellent use of fresh butternut squash.
Deliciously Simple: For a more delectable experience, consider trying our recipes for other seasonal dishes like creamy garlic potatoes.
Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin Ingredients
For the Gratin
• Butternut squash – 2 1/2 lb of this squash brings a sweet flavor and creamy texture that shines in the gratin.
• Butter or margarine – 1/4 cup adds a rich, silky foundation for the garlic infusion.
• Garlic – 2 large cloves finely chopped to impart a warm, aromatic flavor throughout the dish.
• Progresso™ panko bread crumbs – 1/4 cup offers a light, crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the tender squash.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – 1/3 cup is crucial for that savory, cheesy goodness that elevates the butternut squash gratin.
• Salt – 1/4 teaspoon brings out the natural sweetness of the squash, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Pepper – 1/8 teaspoon adds a whisper of warmth to balance the dish.
• Fresh parsley – 1/4 cup chopped, it adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness to the gratin before serving.
Tip: Feel free to personalize this Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin with your favorite herbs or a sprinkle of nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth!
How to Make Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin
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Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spray a 13×9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish with cooking spray. Prepare the butternut squash by peeling, halving it lengthwise, and seeding. Cut the squash into 1/2-inch-thick slices, arranging them with slight overlaps in the bottom of the dish.
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Melt the butter in a 2-quart saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, reduce heat to low and add the finely chopped garlic. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic softens and the butter is infused with that delicious garlic flavor. Make sure the butter doesn’t brown!
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Combine the bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon of the melted butter-garlic mixture in a small bowl. This will create a tasty topping that adds crunch to your gratin.
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Brush the squash slices generously with the remaining butter-garlic mixture. Sprinkle the layers evenly with salt, pepper, and the breadcrumb mixture to ensure each bite is packed with flavor.
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Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F; bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the gratin is lightly browned and delightful. Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a touch of color and freshness.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin
Room Temperature: Refrigerate leftovers promptly; don’t leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours to keep the flavors fresh.
Fridge: Store your Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture and rich flavors.
Freezer: You can freeze the gratin for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe container before freezing to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until warmed through and crispy on top.
Make Ahead Options
These Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin are fantastic for meal prep, making your busy weeknights much easier! You can peel, seed, and slice the butternut squash up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the buttery garlic mixture and breadcrumb topping a full 3 days ahead. When you’re ready to bake, simply layer the squash in your baking dish, brush with the prepared garlic butter, and sprinkle on the seasoning and breadcrumb mixture. Bake as instructed for a delicious dinner that tastes just as fantastic as if you made it fresh!
Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin Variations
Feel free to personalize your gratin and make it uniquely yours with these exciting twists!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute vegan butter and nutritional yeast for a creamy, plant-based version that everyone will love.
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Herb-Infused: Add chopped fresh thyme or sage to the butter-garlic mixture for an aromatic touch that enhances each bite.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the breadcrumbs for a delightful heat that will awaken your taste buds.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the breadcrumb topping for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
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Cheesy Twist: Swap out Parmesan for Gruyère or cheddar to create a completely different flavor profile that’s just as satisfying.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in sautéed greens like spinach or kale between the layers of squash for added nutrients and vibrant color.
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Sweet Addition: Roast some apples or pears alongside the squash for a sweet and savory combination that captures fall’s essence.
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Creamy Variation: Pour a splash of heavy cream over the squash before adding the topping for an even creamier, indulgent dish.
What to Serve with Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin?
The comforting warmth of this dish invites a delightful array of accompaniments that elevate any meal.
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Savory Roasted Chicken: Juicy, herb-seasoned chicken pairs beautifully, enhancing the creamy sweetness of the gratin while providing hearty protein.
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Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a zesty vinaigrette offers a bright contrast, lightening the rich flavors of the squash.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, garlicky crunch of freshly baked bread adds a satisfying texture, perfect for scooping up the gratin’s cheesy goodness.
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Sautéed Greens: Lightly sautéed kale or spinach introduces a vibrant, earthy flavor alongside the sweet butternut, making for a balanced plate.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Soft and buttery potatoes are a classic companion, providing a comforting base that complements the gratin’s flavor profile.
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Herbed Quinoa: This nutty grain not only brings extra texture but also absorbs the delicious garlic and cheese flavors, creating a delightful harmony on your plate.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Pour a glass of warm spiced apple cider to gel with the autumnal vibes of the meal, emphasizing the sweet notes of the butternut squash.
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Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, a slice of pumpkin pie with whipped cream rounds out this fall-inspired feast, tying the entire meal together beautifully.
Tips for the Best Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin
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Choose Ripe Squash: Look for a firm butternut squash with a tan skin. Make sure it feels heavy for its size, as this indicates sweetness and proper ripeness.
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Garlic Care: Avoid browning the garlic in the butter. Cook gently; too high heat can turn it bitter, ruining the flavor of your Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin.
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Layer Wisely: Arrange squash slices in an overlapping pattern. This not only looks beautiful but ensures even cooking and a lovely caramelization effect.
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Breadcrumb Perfection: Use panko bread crumbs for an extra crunchy topping. Regular bread crumbs will work, but they won’t give you that delightful crunch that makes this dish shine.
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Browning Technique: If your gratin isn’t browning as desired, place it under the broiler for a minute or two. Keep a close eye to prevent burning; just a touch of golden will do!
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Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to customize your gratin! Adding herbs like thyme or a dash of nutmeg can elevate the flavors of your Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin even further.
Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin Recipe FAQs
How do I select the perfect butternut squash?
Absolutely! Look for a firm butternut squash that has a tan skin, indicating ripeness. It should feel heavy for its size—this signifies sweetness and a creamy texture. Avoid any that have dark spots or blemishes, as these can indicate spoilage.
How should I store leftovers of my Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin?
After you’ve enjoyed your delicious gratin, store any leftovers promptly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, but don’t leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours to keep all those scrumptious flavors intact.
Can I freeze my Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin?
Yes, yes, a thousand times yes! To freeze your gratin, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. This will keep it safe from freezer burn. It’s good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes.
What if my Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin isn’t browning as I expect?
Very common! If your gratin isn’t browning nicely after the recommended baking time, simply place it under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it while broiling, as it can go from beautifully golden to burnt in a flash.
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Yes, it’s always wise to consider dietary restrictions! This gratin contains dairy due to the butter and cheese, which may not be suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals. For a lactose-free version, use dairy-free butter and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan. Additionally, check your breadcrumbs for any potential gluten ingredients if you’re catering to gluten-free diets.
Can I customize the flavors in the Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin?
Absolutely! Feel free to personalize your gratin by adding herbs like thyme or sage for an extra aromatic touch. A sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon can also amplify those fall flavors beautifully! Just mix it in with the breadcrumb topping for optimal distribution.
Creamy Parmesan-Butternut Squash Gratin to Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spray a 13x9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish with cooking spray. Prepare the butternut squash by peeling, halving it lengthwise, and seeding. Cut the squash into 1/2-inch-thick slices, arranging them with slight overlaps in the bottom of the dish.
- Melt the butter in a 2-quart saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, reduce heat to low and add the finely chopped garlic. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic softens and the butter is infused with that delicious garlic flavor.
- Combine the bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon of the melted butter-garlic mixture in a small bowl.
- Brush the squash slices generously with the remaining butter-garlic mixture. Sprinkle the layers evenly with salt, pepper, and the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F; bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until lightly browned.
- Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top.