Squash Gratin
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
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This savoury winter squash gratin is a wonderful way to celebrate seasonal produce. By slow-roasting the squash with woody rosemary, smoky bacon, and whole garlic cloves, you create a deep, caramelised flavour without the need for heavy cream or butter. The natural sweetness of the squash is perfectly balanced by the salty kick of the pecorino and the textural crunch of toasted pumpkin seeds.
As a diabetes-friendly option, this dish offers a nutritious alternative to traditional potato-based gratins. It is rich in fibre and vitamin A, making it a wholesome choice for a midweek supper or a satisfying side dish for a Sunday roast. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or a crisp green salad for a balanced, flavourful meal that feels truly indulgent.
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Ingredients for Squash Gratin
1.0kg of winter squash
2 slices of bacon 1/8 inch thick
4 garlic cloves (unpeeled but crushed)
1 sprig of rosemary
salt
a handful of dried pumpkin seeds
freshly ground black pepper
30g of pecorino or Parmesan cheese
How to make Squash Gratin
Peel 1.0kg of winter squash and cut into cubes.
Preheat the oven to 232°C.
In a large ovenproof pot, brown 2 slices of bacon 1/8 inch thick for 5 minutes, turning them over. Add the cubes of squash, 4 garlic cloves (unpeeled but crushed), 1 sprig of rosemary, and a little salt.
Cover with parchment paper and put in the oven for 30 minutes.
Lower the oven temperature to 177°C, remove the parchment paper, and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
In the meantime, heat a dry skillet and toast a handful of dried pumpkin seeds. Cool on paper towels, then crush.
When the squash is cooked, take the pot out of the oven and turn on the grill.
Throw away the rosemary and the peel of the garlic cloves.
Remove the slices of bacon and cut into small lardons.
Mash the squash and garlic with a fork and add the lardons. Stir and adjust the seasoning with plenty of freshly ground black pepper.
Sprinkle the top of the gratin with pumpkin seeds.
With a vegetable peeler, shave 30g of pecorino or Parmesan cheese into small flakes and sprinkle evenly over the gratin.
Put under the grill for about 2 minutes to brown the top. Serve immediately.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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