Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting side dish that will impress your family and friends, look no further than this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin. It’s the perfect blend of sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets, all baked together with creamy goodness and a hint of garlic. I love making this dish for special occasions like Thanksgiving, but it’s also wonderful for busy weeknights when you just want to bring a little warmth to the table. Trust me; once you try it, this gratin will become a favorite in your kitchen too!

This recipe is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to prepare. The vibrant colors of the root vegetables make it as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some healthy veggies while enjoying that mouthwatering cheesy flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and minimal prep work, you can whip up this gratin without any fuss.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the creamy texture and cheesy goodness of this dish.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready—perfect for gatherings!
• Versatile flavors: The combination of sweet and earthy flavors makes this gratin a delightful addition to any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin features simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Let’s gather what we need to create this delicious dish!

For the Gratin

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (softened)
• 1-2 long sweet potatoes (about 2 inches thick), peeled
• 3-4 large parsnips, ends trimmed and peeled
• 3-5 small beets, peeled
• 14 tablespoons heavy cream, divided (whole milk is fine, but mixture won’t thicken as much or be as creamy)
• 4 ounces grated Parmesan, divided
• 1 tablespoon fresh minced thyme, divided (plus more for garnish)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 ounce shredded gruyere
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best things about this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add more veggies: Toss in some carrots or turnips for added color and flavor.
• Switch up the cheese: Try using cheddar or feta if you want a different twist on the classic flavor.
• Herb infusion: Mix in some rosemary or sage along with thyme for a more aromatic experience.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives for a plant-based version.

How to Make Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400˚F. This ensures that your gratin bakes evenly and reaches that golden-brown perfection everyone loves. While your oven heats up, grease a 3-quart baking dish with softened butter—it helps prevent sticking and adds a bit of extra richness.

Step 2: Slice Your Vegetables

Slice the sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets into very thin rounds. A mandoline works wonders here if you have one! Each vegetable can go into its own bowl for easy mixing later. This step is crucial because even slices allow for even cooking throughout.

Step 3: Coat with Creamy Goodness

Pour 4 tablespoons of cream over each bowl of sweet potatoes and parsnips. For the beets, use just 2 tablespoons of cream. Sprinkle each with ½ ounce of grated Parmesan and a teaspoon of minced thyme. Don’t forget to season generously with salt and pepper before tossing everything together until well coated.

Step 4: Layer in Your Baking Dish

Pour the remaining ¼ cup of cream into the bottom of your greased baking dish. Sprinkle over another ½ ounce of Parmesan along with minced garlic. Now grab those beautifully prepared vegetable slices! Start by arranging them standing up on a bias—first sweet potatoes, then parsnips, followed by beets. Repeat until you fill your dish with six colorful rows!

Step 5: Season & Bake

Don’t skip seasoning! Add salt, pepper, and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan over the top layer. Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for about 30 minutes until those veggies are soft. This step helps them steam perfectly while absorbing all those lovely flavors.

Step 6: Finish Off with Gruyere

Once your time is up, carefully uncover the gratin and add that dreamy shredded gruyere on top! Place it back in the oven without cover for another 18-20 minutes until everything is fork-tender and bubbling away with melted cheese—what could be better?

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

At last! Pull out your gorgeous Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin from the oven and finish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves for that touch of freshness. Serve warm alongside your favorite main dishes or enjoy it all on its own!

Now you have an incredible side dish that’s sure to impress everyone gathered around your table! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Creating the perfect Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks. Here are some tips to ensure your gratin turns out beautifully creamy and delicious.

• Use a mandoline slicer – Achieving uniform thickness in your vegetable slices helps them cook evenly, resulting in a perfectly tender texture throughout the dish.
• Layer thoughtfully – When arranging your vegetables, alternating colors not only looks stunning but also allows each root vegetable to infuse flavor into one another as they bake.
• Let it rest – Allowing the gratin to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall texture.
• Experiment with cheese – While this recipe calls for Parmesan and Gruyère, feel free to mix in other types of cheese like cheddar or goat cheese! This can add an exciting twist and depth of flavor.
• Make ahead of time – You can prepare the gratin a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge.

How to Serve Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Serving your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ideas to enhance your presentation and complement this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme leaves – A sprinkle of fresh thyme adds a pop of color and an aromatic touch that complements the earthy flavors of the root vegetables.
• Chopped parsley – A handful of chopped parsley offers a fresh contrast, brightening up the dish visually while adding a hint of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts – These caramelized little gems bring a crunchy texture alongside sweetness that pairs well with the creamy gratin.
• Garlic mashed potatoes – A classic side that’s always welcome at dinner tables! The creamy garlic flavors meld beautifully with the rich taste of your gratin.
• Green salad with vinaigrette – A crisp green salad provides a refreshing contrast. The acidity from the vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the cheesy gratin.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin will surely impress at any gathering. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is perfect for meal prep, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or special occasions. You can prepare it in advance and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gratin to cool completely.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the gratin completely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Note that freezing may affect the texture of the vegetables slightly.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. Remove foil during the last 5-10 minutes for a crispy top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious dish!

Can I make Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the gratin up to a day in advance. Just refrigerate it before baking, and add an extra few minutes to the cooking time when you’re ready to bake.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin?

If you prefer a lighter option, you can use whole milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Keep in mind that using milk will result in a less rich texture.

How long does Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, your gratin will stay fresh for about 3 days.

Can I add other vegetables to the Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin?

Certainly! Feel free to experiment with other root vegetables like carrots or turnips. Just ensure they are sliced thinly so they cook evenly.

Is there a gluten-free option for Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as none of the ingredients contain gluten. Ensure that any additional ingredients you use are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin as much as I do! It combines comforting flavors and vibrant colors, making it not only delicious but also a stunning addition to your table. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to impress everyone. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!