Skip to main content

Squash Gratin

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.

Continue reading below

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
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.