Delicata Squash Au Gratin

Delicata Squash Au Gratin with Carrots and Onions

With Thanksgiving around the corner, you might be looking for a great Winter Squash Dish! While keeping in mind the traditional foods of Thanksgiving, this twist on Au Gratin Potatoes is a great alternative- it also tasted and presents itself beautifully! 

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized delicata squash, peeled, seeded, and thinly sliced
• 2 large carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 large white onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Bread Crumbs (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
• Bake the Delicata Squash, just enough to make it tender- then deseed, and thinly slice the delicata squash.
• Peel and thinly slice the carrots.
3. Thinly slice both the red and white onions.
4. Assemble the Au Gratin:
• In a greased baking dish, layer your vegetables. Bake until you see the vegetables start to soften, or even brown.
5. Make the Cheese Sauce:
• In a medium saucepan, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
• Stir in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until it's lightly golden.
• Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
• Once the mixture thickens, add the shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheeses. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.
• Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and freshly grated nutmeg.

5. Pour the Cheese Sauce over the Veggies:

1. Bake:
• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
• Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the vegetables are tender, feel free to add bread crumbs for extra texture and taste prior to baking.
2. Garnish and Serve:
• Remove the au gratin from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy this flavorful and comforting Delicata Squash Au Gratin with Carrots and Onions as a side dish to complement your meal!