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In the world of comfort food, gratins hold a special place in our hearts. They offer warmth, richness, and a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make them truly irresistible. The Butternut Squash & Spinach Delight Gratin is an exceptional choice for those seeking a wholesome yet indulgent dish. This recipe marries the earthy sweetness of butternut squash with the vibrant freshness of spinach, all enveloped in the creamy goodness of Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family gathering or planning an elaborate holiday dinner, this gratin is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Butternut Squash and Spinach Gratin

Indulge in the warmth and comfort of Butternut Squash & Spinach Delight Gratin, a perfect blend of sweet butternut squash and fresh spinach, smothered in creamy Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses. This versatile dish is not only a delicious centerpiece for family gatherings but also nutritious, packed with vitamins and minerals. Explore the step-by-step preparation and learn how to create a dish that delights the senses and nourishes the body. Perfect for any occasion!
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Ingredients
  

1 medium butternut squash (approximately 2 pounds), peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes

4 cups fresh spinach, thoroughly washed and roughly chopped

1 small onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (plus extra for topping)

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste

1 cup Panko breadcrumbs

Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure the gratin cooks evenly and develops a beautiful golden top.

    Cook the Butternut Squash: In a large pot, fill with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then carefully add the diced butternut squash. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender. Once ready, drain and set aside.

      Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it releases its fragrant aroma.

        Combine Spinach and Squash: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, mixing it in with the onions and garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, just until the spinach is wilted. Next, fold in the drained butternut squash, seasoning the mixture with ground nutmeg, salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.

          Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, Gruyère cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Pour this creamy mixture over the butternut squash and spinach blend, stirring gently to ensure everything is well coated.

            Assemble the Gratin: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Transfer the creamy squash and spinach mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top followed by a generous layer of Panko breadcrumbs to add a delightful crunch. Finish with a sprinkling of extra Gruyère cheese for that melty, crispy topping.

              Bake the Gratin: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye out for the top to turn golden brown and bubbly, indicating that it is perfect.

                Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the gratin cool for a few minutes to firm up slightly. Before serving, garnish with fresh thyme leaves to add a touch of freshness and color.

                  Enjoy your Butternut Squash & Spinach Delight Gratin warm as a comforting side dish or a hearty vegetarian main course!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8