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As the leaves change and the air grows crisp, there's nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of a hearty dish to embrace the flavors of fall. The Fall Harvest Cheesy Squash Gratin is a delightful way to celebrate the season, featuring layers of tender butternut squash enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings a touch of elegance to any autumn gathering.

Fall Harvest Cheesy Squash Gratin

Embrace the spirit of fall with this cozy Fall Harvest Cheesy Squash Gratin. This easy weeknight dinner features layers of tender butternut squash smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or family comfort meals. With its comforting flavors and delightful crunch, its a dish that will warm your heart and home. Try it tonight and savor the essence of the season—your taste buds will thank you!
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Ingredients
  

2 medium butternut squashes (about 2 pounds), peeled and thinly sliced into rounds

1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup whole milk

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus 1/2 cup for topping)

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for an extra crunch)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon unsalted butter, for greasing the baking dish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with unsalted butter to prevent sticking.

    Prepare the Squash: In a large mixing bowl, take the sliced butternut squash and season it generously with salt, pepper, and the ground nutmeg. Toss the slices until they are evenly coated with the seasonings, ensuring a flavorful base for your gratin.

      Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the onions are ready, stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.

        Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan set over low heat, combine the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring gently. Gradually incorporate 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese along with all of the grated Parmesan cheese into the mixture. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce is smooth. Mix in the fresh thyme leaves and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired.

          Layer the Gratin: In the prepared baking dish, create the first layer by arranging half of the seasoned squash slices evenly across the bottom. Next, sprinkle half of the sautéed onion and garlic mixture over the squash. Pour half of the cheese sauce over this onion layer. Repeat the process with the remaining squash, followed by the rest of the onion and garlic mixture, and finally finish with the remaining cheese sauce, ensuring a delicious top layer.

            Add Breadcrumb Topping: In a small mixing bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Evenly distribute this breadcrumb mixture over the top of your layered gratin, creating a crunchy topping that will brown beautifully.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is a lovely golden brown and the squash is fork-tender.

                Cool and Serve: Allow the gratin to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting time will help the layers set up a bit, making it easier to serve and enjoy.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour | 6 servings

                    - Presentation Tips: For an inviting presentation, serve the gratin in the baking dish, garnishing the top with extra thyme leaves for a pop of color. A light drizzle of olive oil can enhance the appearance. Enjoy your heartwarming fall dish!