Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Name: Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced; 3 medium carrots, thinly sliced; 2 medium parsnips, thinly sliced; 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is a perfect blend of earthy root vegetables, creamy cheese, and savory goodness. This comforting dish is an ideal side for holiday meals or cozy family dinners. The balance of textures and rich flavors will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re looking for a filling vegetarian dish or an elegant addition to your table, this cheesy gratin will satisfy all your cravings. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through creating a delicious Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin that is sure to be a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

The Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is an easy, make-ahead dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It combines seasonal root vegetables with a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s baked to perfection. This gratin is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals. Plus, it’s a flexible dish — you can swap in different root vegetables depending on what you have on hand. With its rich flavor and smooth texture, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. Whether for a Thanksgiving feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes!

Ingredients for Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Here’s what you’ll need to create your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin:

• Potatoes: These provide the creamy, hearty base for the gratin, offering texture and flavor.
• Carrots: Sweet and earthy, they add both flavor and color to the dish.
• Parsnips: These lend a slightly peppery flavor and add a delightful texture to the gratin.
• Gruyère cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and imparts a nutty, creamy richness to the gratin.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp and tangy, it complements the Gruyère perfectly.
• Heavy cream: Adds a rich, velvety texture and helps bind everything together.
• Butter: Ensures a golden, crispy top and adds richness to the dish.
• Garlic: Provides an aromatic flavor that enhances the overall profile.
• Thyme: A fragrant herb that brings an earthy note to the gratin.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to make some adjustments to fit dietary preferences or simply missing an ingredient, here are some options:

• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend if thickening the cream mixture is needed.
• Dairy-free: Swap the heavy cream and cheeses for plant-based alternatives like cashew cream and vegan cheese.
• Other root vegetables: You can use sweet potatoes, turnips, or even rutabaga instead of parsnips or carrots, depending on availability and preference.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Prepare the vegetables: Peel and slice the potatoes, carrots, and parsnips into even, thin rounds. This ensures that the vegetables cook uniformly.
Cook the garlic: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Make the creamy sauce: Add the heavy cream to the pan with the garlic, then stir in the thyme, salt, and pepper. Allow the cream mixture to simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly.
Layer the vegetables: Arrange a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish, then top with a portion of carrots and parsnips. Repeat this process, creating layers of vegetables, until the dish is full.
Add cheese: Sprinkle a generous amount of Gruyère and cheddar cheese over each layer.
Pour the cream: Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the layered vegetables and cheese.
Bake the gratin: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to allow the top to become golden and bubbly.
Rest and serve: Let the gratin sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to set.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Gratin

To ensure your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin turns out just right, here are a few tips:

Slice the vegetables thinly: Thin slices ensure even cooking and a creamy texture in the finished gratin.
Don’t skip the foil: Covering the dish with foil during the first part of the bake helps steam the vegetables, ensuring they cook through before the cheese browns.
Use high-quality cheese: The cheese is key to flavor, so opt for aged Gruyère and sharp cheddar for the best results.
Let the gratin rest: Allowing the dish to rest after baking helps it set and makes it easier to serve in clean slices.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes, such as:

• Roast chicken or turkey: The richness of the gratin complements the savory flavors of roast poultry.
• Steak or pork chops: The hearty texture of the gratin balances well with a juicy steak or tender pork.
• Salad: Serve it alongside a crisp, fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast.

Variations:

Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream mixture for a touch of heat.
Vegan version: Swap the dairy products for plant-based alternatives such as coconut milk, vegan cheese, and vegan butter.

Health Benefits of Root Vegetables in Gratin

Root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and parsnips offer a range of health benefits. They are rich in dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels. These vegetables also provide a variety of essential vitamins, including Vitamin C and potassium, which support immune health and regulate blood pressure. While this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin may be indulgent, it’s a great way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of these hearty vegetables in a comforting dish.

By incorporating root vegetables into your meals, you can enjoy both the delicious flavors and the health benefits that come with them. Plus, with its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this gratin is sure to become a go-to comfort food for any season!

Conclusion

The Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is a comforting and versatile dish that brings together the earthy flavors of root vegetables with a rich, creamy, cheesy sauce. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast, a family gathering, or a cozy dinner, this gratin is sure to please everyone at the table. Its combination of textures, flavor depth, and ease of preparation makes it an irresistible choice for any meal. Plus, with its ability to be customized for various dietary preferences, it’s a recipe that’s both delicious and inclusive. Try this dish at your next gathering and watch it become a favorite among your loved ones!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this gratin ahead of time! Prepare the gratin up until the baking step, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and bake it as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

2. What other vegetables can I use in a Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin?

While this recipe calls for potatoes, carrots, and parsnips, you can easily swap in other root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, turnips, rutabaga, or even beets. Just ensure the vegetables are sliced evenly to promote even cooking.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! To make a dairy-free version of the Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream like coconut or cashew cream, and use dairy-free cheeses that melt well, such as vegan mozzarella or cheddar. You can also swap the butter for a vegan alternative.

4. How do I store leftovers of Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover the gratin with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For an extra crispy top, remove the foil during the last few minutes of reheating.

More Relevant Recipes

Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi: A comforting and rich dish made with soft, pillowy gnocchi smothered in a creamy pumpkin sauce. This dish is perfect for fall and pairs well with the savory flavors of root vegetables in the gratin.
Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: A warm and hearty salad made with roasted butternut squash, offering sweet, caramelized flavors that complement the savory richness of a cheesy root vegetable gratin.
Honey Roasted Chicken and Sweet Potatoes: This dish features tender, roasted chicken paired with caramelized sweet potatoes, a great match for the earthy flavors of root vegetables in the gratin.

Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin – Delicious & Easy Recipe

Table of Contents