Savory Butternut Squash Parmesan Recipe

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by tastyfoodonly

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Butternut Squash Parmesan is like a warm hug on a chilly evening—creamy, cheesy goodness that wraps around your taste buds and makes everything right in the world. Imagine the sweet aroma of roasted butternut squash mingling with rich cheese while your kitchen transforms into an inviting sanctuary of flavor. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel all warm inside and leaves you longing for more.

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I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends gathered for dinner, and their eyes lit up as I pulled it from the oven. The golden crust beckoned them closer, promising an explosion of flavors and textures that would be hard to forget. Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at a gathering, this Butternut Squash Parmesan is guaranteed to bring joy to any table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Butternut Squash Parmesan is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
  • The harmonious blend of flavors creates a mouthwatering experience
  • Visually stunning with its vibrant colors, it’s a feast for both eyes and palate
  • Serve it as a main dish or a delightful side—its versatility knows no bounds!

My friend once exclaimed that this was the best vegetarian dish she had ever tasted!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Butternut Squash: Look for firm squashes with smooth skin; they should feel heavy for their size.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Use fresh grated cheese for optimal flavor; it’s worth the extra effort!
  • Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness; drizzle generously over your squash before roasting.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves pack in robust flavor; don’t skimp on these little powerhouses!
  • Fresh Thyme: These aromatic herbs elevate the dish; using fresh makes all the difference.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: For that crispy topping, ensure you choose panko instead of regular breadcrumbs.
  • Salt and Pepper: Simple yet essential seasonings; they enhance all the other flavors beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking for our butternut squash.

Prepare the Butternut Squash: Cut your butternut squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and brush both halves with olive oil generously.

Add Seasonings: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and minced garlic over the oiled squash halves. The aroma will have you drooling already!

Roast Until Tender: Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast them for about 30-35 minutes until tender.

Create Your Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese with fresh thyme and panko breadcrumbs. Mix well until combined.

Assemble Before Baking: Once cool enough to handle, flip the roasted squash upright. Fill each cavity generously with your cheesy mixture before returning them to bake for another 15-20 minutes.

When you pull that bubbling masterpiece from the oven, prepare yourself for an avalanche of compliments!

Enjoy every bite of your Butternut Squash Parmesan!

You Must Know

  • Butternut Squash Parmesan is a delightful dish that balances savory flavors with a hint of sweetness
  • The creamy texture combined with the rich Parmesan makes it a crowd-pleaser
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a main or side, perfect for any occasion

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting the butternut squash until tender, then prepare your sauce while it cooks. This sequence ensures everything finishes at the same time and blends beautifully.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out Parmesan for Gruyère or add some caramelized onions for extra depth. Customize it based on what you love or have on hand!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve that lovely texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use fresh Parmesan for better flavor; pre-grated cheese lacks that rich taste
  • Always taste your sauce before serving; adjusting seasoning can elevate the dish significantly
  • Cut squash evenly for uniform roasting, ensuring all pieces cook perfectly and are tender

I remember the first time I served Butternut Squash Parmesan at a family gathering. Everyone went back for seconds—it was such a hit!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, but fresh squash offers better texture and flavor in Butternut Squash Parmesan.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

To make it vegan, substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan and use plant-based cream.

How long does this dish take to prepare?

The total prep and cooking time is about 45 minutes, making it relatively quick!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Butternut Squash Parmesan


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  • Author: tastyfoodonly
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Butternut Squash Parmesan is a creamy and cheesy delight that transforms roasted squash into a comforting casserole, perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

  • Butternut squash
  • Fresh grated Parmesan cheese
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Fresh garlic
  • Fresh thyme
  • Panko breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Halve the butternut squash, scoop out the seeds, and brush with olive oil.
  3. Season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
  4. Place cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 30-35 minutes until tender.
  5. In a bowl, combine fresh Parmesan, thyme, and panko breadcrumbs.
  6. Flip the roasted squash halves and fill them with the cheese mixture. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Vegetarian
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

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