Caramelized Onion Gruyere Squash (Printable view)

Roasted acorn squash stuffed with caramelized onions, melted Gruyere, and fresh herbs for a comforting vegetarian main.

# What You Need:

→ Squash

01 - 2 medium acorn squash, halved lengthwise and seeded
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
04 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Caramelized Onions

05 - 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
07 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
08 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
10 - 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
11 - 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves

→ Filling and Garnish

12 - 1 1/2 cups Gruyere cheese, grated
13 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, optional

# How To Make:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Brush cut sides of acorn squash with olive oil and season with kosher salt and black pepper. Place squash halves cut side down on baking sheet and roast 35 to 40 minutes until fork-tender.
03 - Heat unsalted butter and olive oil in large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and kosher salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, 30 to 35 minutes until onions are golden and soft, adding sugar halfway through to deepen caramelization.
04 - Stir in balsamic vinegar and fresh thyme leaves. Cook 2 minutes then remove from heat.
05 - Remove squash from oven and turn cut side up. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F.
06 - Divide caramelized onions evenly among squash cavities. Top each half with grated Gruyere cheese.
07 - Return squash to oven and bake 15 to 20 minutes until cheese is melted and golden at edges.
08 - Remove from oven and garnish with fresh parsley and additional thyme leaves before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Comforting gourmet vegetarian main
  • Perfect for any occasion
02 -
  • Roast squash cut side down to concentrate sweetness and enhance caramelization
  • Caramelize onions slowly over low heat to avoid burning and bitterness
03 -
  • Use fresh thyme for more vibrant flavor
  • Slow roasting develops natural sweetness even more
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