Caramelized Onion Gruyere Squash (Printable Version)

Roasted acorn squash halves filled with sweet caramelized onions and melted Gruyere cheese.

# Ingredient List:

→ 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 - 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, plus additional for garnish
14 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, optional

# Directions:

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

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Comforting vegetarian main dish
  • Gourmet flavors with caramelized onions and Gruyere cheese
02 -
  • Roast squash cut side down to concentrate sweetness and enhance caramelization
  • Caramelize onions slowly over low heat to avoid burning and bitterness
03 -
  • Grate Gruyere cheese fresh for the best melt and flavor
  • Use certified gluten-free cheese to keep recipe gluten-free
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