Butternut Squash Gratin with Leeks (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Base ingredients
01 -
2 lb butternut squash, peeled and sliced into 1/8 inch disks
02 -
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
03 -
2 medium leeks, thinly sliced
04 -
4 garlic cloves, rough chopped
05 -
15 sage leaves, chopped (plus 8 more for crispy garnish if desired)
→ Cream mixture
06 -
1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free option)
07 -
1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper
08 -
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
09 -
1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
→ Assembly and topping
10 -
1/4 cup water
11 -
3 ounces gruyere cheese (or parmesan/vegan parmesan)
12 -
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
02 -
Peel and slice the butternut squash into thin 1/8-inch rounds. Set aside the best-looking 12-15 slices for the top layer. When you reach the seedy part, scoop out the seeds and continue slicing. Consider dividing the slices into three piles for easy layering later.
03 -
Slice and rinse the leeks - the water will help them cook better. Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the leeks for 8-10 minutes, covering partially to help them soften. Add garlic, sage, and a pinch of salt, then cook for 2-3 more minutes. Remove from heat.
04 -
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream (or coconut milk) with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and onion powder if using.
05 -
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or 11-12 inch round pan. Add 1/4 cup water to the bottom. Layer butternut squash slices, overlapping slightly. Top with half the leeks, 1/3 cup cream mixture, and 1/3 of the cheese. Repeat layers, using imperfect squash pieces in the middle. Final layer should be your prettiest squash slices, remaining cream, cheese, and walnuts. Press down gently to level.
06 -
Cover with parchment-lined foil and bake for 45 minutes at 375°F. Then uncover, check if squash is tender, and bake at 400°F for 15 more minutes until golden brown.
# Notes:
01 -
This dish can be assembled ahead and refrigerated before baking, or fully baked and reheated at 350°F
02 -
For most even cooking, bring to room temperature before baking
03 -
A shallow baking dish works best for even cooking