Butternut Squash, Leek and Goat Cheese Casserole



Servings: 6-8

Prep Time: 30-45 min

Cook Time: 30 min

Difficulty: Medium

Ingredients

 * 3 pounds of Butternut Squash peeled, seeded and cut into 3/4 inch cubes (about 2 medium whole ones)
 * 2 tablspoons Olive Oil
 * Kosher salt
 * 3 cups of sliced Leeks (the pale green parts only)
 * 1 Cup of Milk or Heavy Whipping Cream
 * 1 5.5 oz log of Goat Cheese
 * 1/2 Cup of Chopped Pecans
 * 2-3 tblspoons of Butter

Directions

 * 1) Microwave the whole Butternut Squash one at a time for 2-3 minutes. This will soften it up and make it easier to cut open.
 * 2) Cut open lenthwise, scoop out the insides and peel. Cut into 1/4 inc cubed pieces.
 * 3) Mix in a large mixing bown with olive oil, kosher salt and pepper (as much or as little as you like).
 * 4) Pour squash cubes out onto a large baking dish and bake for 25-20 min at 450 degrees.
 * 5) While Swash is baking, Saute Leeks in a large skillet with butter for 10-15 minutes until cooked (but not brown).
 * 6) Spread a layer of butter on bottom of Casserole Dish. Then add half of the Leek mixture, followed by a layer of Butternut Squash pieces, and a Layer of Goat Cheese. Repeat with a second layer of all three.
 * 7) Add the cup of Milk. Sprinkle the Pecans on top.
 * 8) You can make the above part up to 24 hours in advance
 * 9) Bake for 30 min at 375 degress (45 min if previously chilled) until cheese is melted and milk is bubbling).
 * 10) Serve immediately!

Notes & Tips

 * Buy Butternut Squash pre-peeled and chopped. It will save you a lot of prep time. They have bags at Trader Joes.
 * Hazelnuts or Walnuts can be substituted for the Pecans
 * Heavy Whipping Cream, Half & Half or Skim Milk can be used depending on desired creaminess/healthiness