Delicata Squash Gratin

Ingredients

• cooking spray
• 2 delicatas squash
• salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1.5 cups milk
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spray a medium casserole dish with cooking spray.

2. 2

   Slice delicata squash lengthwise, remove seeds and pulp, and cut into 1/2-inch crescent-shaped slices. Place squash in the prepared pan and lightly season with salt and pepper.

3. 3

   Melt butter in a 1-quart saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes, being careful not to allow the paste to brown. Gradually stir in milk and bring to a boil. Stir and cook for about 3 minutes; remove from heat. Mix in Gruyere cheese and stir until melted. Season with cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.

4. 4

   Pour cheese sauce over the squash and bake in the preheated oven until the squash is fork-tender, 25 to 30 minutes. Garnish with snipped parsley.