Description
Golden Potato and Butternut Squash is a creamy, comforting baked dish that layers tender slices of potatoes and sweet squash in a savory herb-infused cheese sauce. Perfect for holiday spreads or hearty weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1.5 lbs golden potatoes (Yukon Gold), peeled and thinly sliced
- 1.5 lbs butternut squash, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese (or a blend with Parmesan)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing and topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter a large baking dish.
- Thinly slice potatoes and butternut squash using a mandoline or sharp knife for uniform slices.
- In a saucepan, heat cream, milk, garlic, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper over low heat until just warm. Do not boil. Remove from heat.
- Layer half of the potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish, overlapping slightly. Add a layer of butternut squash over the potatoes.
- Pour half of the warm cream mixture over the layers. Sprinkle with half of the cheese.
- Repeat with remaining potatoes and squash. Pour over the rest of the cream and top with remaining cheese.
- Dot with butter and cover the dish with foil.
- Bake for 40 minutes covered, then uncover and bake an additional 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the gratin to set.
Notes
- Use a mandoline slicer for evenly thin slices and consistent cooking.
- Add caramelized onions or crumbled bacon for extra depth and flavor.
- Vegan version: Use plant-based cream, non-dairy milk, and vegan cheese.
- Swap thyme for rosemary or sage to change the flavor profile.
- This dish pairs well with poultry, pork, or as a vegetarian centerpiece.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg