Baked Butternut Squash Gratin with Comté and Thyme

Baked Butternut Squash Gratin with Comté and Thyme

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If you’re looking for a comforting and elegant side dish, this Baked Butternut Squash Gratin with Comté and Thyme is the perfect choice. Creamy layers of sweet butternut squash are enhanced by the nutty flavor of Comté cheese and the earthy aroma of thyme. This gratin is ideal for holiday feasts, Sunday roasts, or cozy weeknight dinners.

Here’s how to prepare this delicious dish that will bring warmth and flavor to your table.

Ingredients

For 4-6 servings:

  • 1 medium butternut squash (about 1 kg or 2.2 lbs), peeled and thinly sliced
  • 200g (7 oz) Comté cheese, grated
  • 300ml (1 ¼ cups) heavy cream
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: a pinch of nutmeg for added depth

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Peel the butternut squash, remove the seeds, and slice it thinly (about 3-4 mm thick) using a sharp knife or a mandoline.

Step 2: Make the Cream Mixture

  1. In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, minced garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
  2. Heat the mixture gently over low heat until it’s warm but not boiling. This will infuse the cream with flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Gratin

  1. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Arrange a layer of butternut squash slices in the dish, slightly overlapping them.
  3. Sprinkle a portion of the grated Comté cheese over the squash.
  4. Repeat the layers until all the squash and cheese are used, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Bake

  1. Pour the warm cream mixture evenly over the squash layers, ensuring it seeps through.
  2. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  3. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
  2. Garnish with a few fresh thyme sprigs for a touch of color and aroma.

Tips for Success

  • Cheese Substitution: If you don’t have Comté, Gruyère or Emmental make excellent substitutes, offering a similar nutty and creamy flavor.
  • Even Slicing: Use a mandoline for uniformly thin slices, ensuring even cooking.
  • Add Crunch: For a crispy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with a little olive oil and grated cheese before the final baking stage.

This Baked Butternut Squash Gratin with Comté and Thyme is a wonderful way to showcase the rich flavors of seasonal squash. The combination of creamy layers, melted cheese, and fragrant thyme creates a dish that’s both simple and indulgent.

Perfect as a side dish or even as a vegetarian main course, this gratin is sure to become a favorite on your table. Give it a try and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!

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