Savory Butternut Squash Gratin with Parmesan Crust
Discover the deliciously unique flavor of butternut squash in this delightful gratin that showcases its natural sweetness and creamy texture. This dish combines layers of tender sliced butternut squash with aromatic parsley, zesty lemon, and garlic, all topped with a crunchy Parmesan and breadcrumb crust. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a comforting side dish, this gratin turns an often-overlooked winter squash into a show-stopping centerpiece on your table. Whether you’re well-acquainted with butternut squash or trying it for the first time, this recipe will bring warmth and heartiness to your meal.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chopped parsley
2/3 cup (fresh)
Freshly grated lemon rind
1 tablespoon (zest)
Garlic
3 cloves (minced)
Butternut squash
3 lb (peeled, seeded, and cut into 3/8-inch slices (about 10 cups))
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (divided)
Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (divided)
Reduced-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup (warm)
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
3/4 cup (about 3 oz.)
Fine dry breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons
Olive oil
1 teaspoon
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
Grease a 12x8-inch glass baking dish or a gratin dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3
In a small bowl, combine the chopped parsley, lemon zest, and minced garlic. This will be your aromatic mixture.
4
Layer half of the butternut squash slices evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5
Sprinkle the first layer of squash with 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/8 teaspoon of pepper, and half of the parsley mixture for an infused flavor.
6
Add the remaining squash slices on top, followed by the rest of the parsley mixture, ensuring an even distribution.
7
Carefully pour the warm chicken broth over the layered squash, allowing it to soak into the layers.
8
Season with the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper.
9
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture, and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the squash is nearly tender.
10
While the squash is baking, prepare the topping by combining the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and olive oil in a small bowl until mixed evenly.
11
Once the squash has baked, remove the foil and sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumb mixture generously over the top.
12
Return the gratin to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the squash is fully tender and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
13
Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this heartwarming dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Butternut Squash Gratin with Parmesan Crust?
It is a flavorful side dish featuring layers of sliced butternut squash seasoned with garlic, lemon, and parsley, finished with a crispy Parmesan and breadcrumb topping.
What oven temperature is required for this recipe?
The oven should be preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
How should I prepare the butternut squash?
The squash should be peeled, seeded, and cut into 3/8-inch slices, which should result in about 10 cups.
What size baking dish is needed?
A 12x8-inch glass baking dish or a standard gratin dish is recommended.
How do I prevent the squash from sticking?
Grease the baking dish with nonstick cooking spray before layering the squash.
What ingredients make up the aromatic mixture?
The aromatic mixture consists of 2/3 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, and 3 minced garlic cloves.
How do I layer the gratin?
Layer half the squash, sprinkle with seasoning and half the parsley mixture, then add the remaining squash and the rest of the parsley mixture.
When do I add the chicken broth?
Pour 1/2 cup of warm reduced-sodium chicken broth over the layered squash before the initial baking phase.
How long does the squash bake while covered?
The squash should bake tightly covered with aluminum foil for 40 to 45 minutes.
What is in the gratin topping?
The topping is a combination of 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons of fine dry breadcrumbs, and 1 teaspoon of olive oil.
When do I add the Parmesan topping?
Add the topping after the initial 40-45 minutes of baking, once the foil has been removed.
How long is the final bake time?
Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the squash is fully tender.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
As written, it uses chicken broth. To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of zest?
The recipe specifically calls for freshly grated lemon rind (zest) for its aromatic oils and flavor.
How much salt is used in the recipe?
A total of 1/2 teaspoon of salt is used, divided between the layers.
How much pepper is used in the recipe?
A total of 1/4 teaspoon of pepper is used, divided between the layers.
Can I use pre-cut squash?
Yes, as long as the pieces are sliced to approximately 3/8-inch thickness to ensure even cooking.
What type of cheese is used for the crust?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is used for the best flavor and melting quality.
Should the chicken broth be cold or warm?
The recipe recommends using warm chicken broth.
How many cloves of garlic are needed?
You will need 3 minced garlic cloves.
What type of parsley should I use?
Freshly chopped parsley is recommended for the best flavor profile.
Is this a good holiday side dish?
Yes, its seasonal flavors and elegant presentation make it perfect for holiday gatherings.
Can I substitute the breadcrumbs?
You can use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch or crushed crackers as a substitute.
What texture should the squash have when finished?
The squash should be fully tender and easily pierced with a fork.
How much olive oil is in the topping?
Only 1 teaspoon of olive oil is mixed into the cheese and breadcrumb topping.
Does the dish need to rest after baking?
Allowing it to cool slightly before serving helps the flavors meld and the texture set.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or omitting them from the Parmesan mixture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
What does the lemon zest add to the flavor?
The lemon zest provides a bright, zesty contrast to the natural sweetness of the squash and the salty Parmesan.
Is the squash peeled before slicing?
Yes, the recipe specifies that the squash should be peeled and seeded before it is sliced.