1/2lbBaconAbout 6 pieces. Thick-cut, applewood-smoked, if possible.
2tbspOlive oil
1Yellow OnionLarge, diced
2tspThyme leavesFresh, chopped
Kosher salt, and black pepperTo taste
1.5cupsPearled farro
3cupsChicken stock
3cupsButternut squashPeeled. 1" dice
1/2cupParmesan cheeseGrated
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Place the bacon on a baking rack set on a sheet pan.
In a small (9-inch) Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, until tender and starting to brown. Add the thyme, 2 teaspoons salt and 1 teaspoon pepper and cook for 1 minute. Add the farro and chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Place the squash on top of the farro mixture, cover, and bake in the same oven with the bacon for 30 minutes, until the squash and farro are tender. Check once during cooking and add a little chicken stock if it's dry.
Bake the bacon until browned (it won't be crisp). Allow to cool then cut it into a very large dice.
Sprinkle the bacon and Parmesan on the squash and farro and bake uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, until most of the liquid evaporates, the farro and butternut squash are tender, and the cheese has melted. Serve hot directly from the pot
Notes
Be sure to check the casserole during the final baking stage. If it starts to look dry, add some more chicken stock.