Description

This easy butternut squash casserole is a comforting and creamy dish perfect as a side or main course. Layers of thinly sliced butternut squash are bathed in a fragrant herb and garlic-infused cream, then baked with mature white cheddar cheese for a golden, bubbly finish. This dish offers warm, rich flavors and a velvety texture that will delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Herb and Garlic Infused Cream

400 ml whipping or double cream (about 1 3/4 cups)
2 bay leaves
A handful of thyme sprigs
1 crushed garlic clove
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)

For the Casserole

2 pounds thinly sliced butternut squash, peeled
100 grams grated mature white cheddar cheese (approximately 1 cup)

Instructions

Prepare the Herb and Garlic Infused Cream: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, ground nutmeg, crushed garlic, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves. Bring this mixture gently to a boil over medium heat, then remove from heat and let it infuse for 10-15 minutes to develop the flavors.
Prepare the Butternut Squash: While the cream infuses, peel, deseed, and thinly slice the butternut squash into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Butter a large, shallow ovenproof dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Layer the Squash and Add Cream: Arrange half of the butternut squash slices in the prepared dish. Pour half of the infused cream over this layer. Add the remaining squash slices on top, then cover them with the remaining cream.
Initial Baking: Cover the dish tightly with tin foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes to soften the squash and meld the flavors.
Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and evenly sprinkle grated mature white cheddar cheese over the casserole. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and the cream is bubbling around the edges.
Serve: Take the casserole out of the oven, allow it to cool slightly, then serve warm. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this butternut squash gratin.

Notes

For a dairy-free option, substitute whipping cream with full-fat coconut milk and reduce cooking time slightly.
Greek yogurt can be used as a lower-fat alternative, though it will add a tangy flavor.
Swap butternut squash with sweet potatoes or pumpkin for similar texture and flavor.
Vegan cheese alternatives include using 1/4 cup nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor and B-vitamins.
Gruyère or Gouda cheeses can be used instead of cheddar for varied flavor profiles.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: butternut squash casserole, creamy squash gratin, baked squash recipe, comforting vegetarian dish, cheesy squash bake