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Gratins have long been celebrated as a quintessential comfort food, a dish that marries rich flavors with satisfying textures to create an inviting experience. Originating from French cuisine, gratins are typically defined by their golden, crispy top layer, often achieved through baking with breadcrumbs or cheese. They can serve as either a hearty side dish or a standalone main course, making them a versatile option suitable for any occasion. In the realm of seasonal cooking, Butternut Bliss Gratin stands out as a delightful choice, particularly in the fall and winter months when butternut squash is at its peak.

Butternut Squash and Spinach Gratin

Discover the comforting delight of Butternut Bliss Gratin, a dish that combines rich flavors and textures for the ultimate cozy experience. Made with seasonal butternut squash and nutritious spinach, this gratin offers the perfect balance of sweetness and savory depth. With layers of creamy cheese and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, it’s a versatile dish ideal for gatherings or family dinners. Embrace this culinary treat that nourishes both body and soul!

Ingredients
  

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced

4 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or any cheese of your choice)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Prepare the Butternut Squash: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the diced butternut squash and cook for about 10 minutes or until tender. Drain well and set aside.

      Sauté the Spinach: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked butternut squash, sautéed spinach, nutmeg, heavy cream, and half of the Gruyère cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

          Assemble the Gratin: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x9 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining Gruyère cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese.

            Add Bread Crumb Topping: Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the cheese. This will create a deliciously crunchy crust.

              Bake the Gratin: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

                Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired, and serve warm.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 6