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 ==
# 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.
# Cut open lengthwise, scoop out the insides and peel. Cut into 1/4 inc cubed pieces.
# Mix in a large mixing bown with olive oil, kosher salt and pepper (as much or as little as you like).
# Pour squash cubes out onto a large baking dish and bake for 25-20 min at 450 degrees.
# While Swash is baking, Saute Leeks in a large skillet with butter for 10–15 minutes until cooked (but not brown).
# 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.
# Add the cup of Milk. Sprinkle the Pecans on top.
# You can make the above part up to 24 hours in advance
# Bake for 30 min at 375 degress (45 min if previously chilled) until cheese is melted and milk is bubbling). 
# 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
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Category:Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Category:Casserole Recipes
Category:Goat cheese Recipes
Category:Leek Recipes
Category:Butternut squash Recipes
Category:Butternut squash Side Dish Recipes
Category:Vegetarian Side Dish Recipes