Acorn Squash au Gratin with Smoked Ham and Gouda

Leftover ham...a blessing and a curse...

The recipe is mine own

serves 6-8

The Ingredients:
2 acorn squash
2 green onion, diced
1 cup smoked ham, diced
2 cup shredded gouda
3 Tbsp butter
3 Tbsp flour
1/2 cup cream
1 1/2 cup milk
salt and pepper

The Process:
Slice the top and bottom off of each squash. Using a vegetable peeler or sharp knife, cut away the skin from the ridges.

 Cut the squash in half, end to end. Remove the seeds. Cut each half in two. Thinly slice each quarter crosswise, into slices approximately 3/8 inch thick. 

In a lightly greased 3 qt baking dish, arrange 1/3 of the squash in a layer. Top with half of the ham, half of onion and 1/2 cup of the gouda. Layer another 1/3 of the squash and follow with remaining ham, onion. Sprinkle 1/2 cup gouda over top.

 Finish with a layer of the remaining squash.

In a medium saucepan, heat the butter over medium-low heat until melted. Add the flour and stir until smooth. Cook until the mixture turns a light golden color, about 5 minutes.  Whisk in the cream and milk. Bring the mixture to just about a boil. Add 1/2 cup gouda. Stir until smooth and the gouda has melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pour the sauce over the prepared squash. Cover with foil. Bake 45-50 or until squash is tender. Remove foil. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese has melted and is beginning to brown.  Allow to cool 5 -10 minutes before serving.