Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any table, this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is just the thing! It combines sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets into a delightful baked dish that’s not only beautiful but also packed with flavor. This recipe is a family favorite in our house, perfect for special gatherings like Thanksgiving or even a cozy weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare that you’ll find yourself making it time and again!

This gratin is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of earthy flavors and creamy goodness that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself, this recipe will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create something truly special without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the colorful medley of vegetables topped with gooey cheese.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake when you’re ready to eat!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of herbs, garlic, and creamy layers elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin. You probably have most of these in your pantry already!

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 works too)
• 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! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add other root vegetables: Try incorporating carrots or turnips for added flavor and color.
• Make it vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Herb swap: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage for unique flavor profiles.

How to Make Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first—preheat your oven to 400˚F. While it’s heating up, grease your 3-quart baking dish with softened butter. This will ensure that your gratin comes out easily without sticking!

Step 2: Slice the Vegetables

Now it’s time to slice those lovely root vegetables! Use a mandoline if you have one; it makes getting those thin rounds super easy. Place each type of vegetable into its own bowl as you go. This helps keep things organized!

Step 3: Coat the Slices

Next up, pour 4 tablespoons of cream over your sweet potatoes and parsnips. Give them each a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and thyme before seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Toss everything together gently until all the slices are well coated. The cream will help everything meld beautifully during baking.

Step 4: Lay the Foundation

Pour the remaining 1/4 cup of cream into the bottom of your greased baking dish. Sprinkle with another ½ ounce of Parmesan cheese along with the minced garlic. This layer adds an amazing base flavor that seeps into the veggies as they cook.

Step 5: Layer Your Veggies

Grab your stack of sweet potatoes first—place them standing on their sides at one end of the baking dish. Follow with parsnips and then beets in neat rows. Repeat until all your veggies are arranged nicely in six rows. It’s not only delicious but also visually stunning!

Step 6: Season Before Baking

Now season the top layer with salt and pepper before sprinkling on the remaining Parmesan cheese. This little touch ensures every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 7: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish tightly with foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for about 30 minutes until those veggies start softening up nicely.

Step 8: Add Gruyere

After half an hour has passed, carefully uncover your gratin and sprinkle shredded gruyere over the top. This melty goodness takes it over the top!

Step 9: Final Bake Uncovered

Return your gratin back into the oven without cover for an additional 18 to 20 minutes until everything is fork-tender, cheesy bliss has melted beautifully on top, and it’s lightly browned.

Step 10: Garnish & Serve

Finish off by sprinkling some fresh thyme leaves on top for that final touch! Serve warm as a comforting side dish that everyone will adore.

Enjoy every cheesy bite of this delightful Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin!

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Creating the perfect Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin can be a delightful experience, and with these helpful tips, you’ll ensure it’s a hit every time!

• Use a Mandoline for Even Slices: Slicing your vegetables uniformly will ensure they cook evenly. A mandoline slicer makes this task quick and easy, providing that perfect thinness for maximum flavor absorption.
• Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan and Gruyere are traditional, feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or a sprinkle of feta for added flavor. This can give your gratin a unique twist based on personal preference or what you have on hand.
• Layering is Key: When stacking your vegetables, alternate colors and textures to create a visually stunning dish. This not only looks impressive but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully together as they bake.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: After baking, allow your gratin to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier, giving you those beautiful slices instead of a mushy mess.
• Add Crunch with Topping Variations: For an extra crunch, consider sprinkling breadcrumbs mixed with herbs over the top before the final bake. This adds texture and an appealing golden finish that contrasts beautifully with the creamy vegetables underneath.

How to Serve Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes! Present it as a centerpiece at your table and watch everyone’s excitement grow as they dig into this colorful dish.

Garnishes

To elevate your gratin even further, consider adding these simple yet effective garnishes:

• Fresh Thyme Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh thyme adds not just flavor but also vibrant color. Its earthy notes complement the root vegetables beautifully.
• Chopped Chives or Green Onions: These bring a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor that brightens up each bite.

Side Dishes

Pairing your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some wonderful options:

• Garlic Roasted Broccoli: The slightly bitter flavor of roasted broccoli pairs perfectly with the rich creaminess of the gratin. Tossing it in garlic gives it an irresistible aroma!
• Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: A light quinoa salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gratin. The citrus from the vinaigrette brightens up the entire plate.
• Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast: A simple herb-crusted chicken provides protein that balances out the meal while keeping it deliciously seasoned without overpowering the gratin’s flavors.
• Simple Green Salad: A mixed green salad dressed lightly with olive oil and vinegar offers a crisp, refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate between bites of cheesy goodness.

Enjoy presenting this delectable Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin at your next gathering—it’s sure to become a beloved staple!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a comforting side dish throughout the week. You can prepare it ahead of time, store it properly, and enjoy its rich flavors even days later.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover gratin in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• If using a glass baking dish, you can cover it tightly with plastic wrap instead of transferring to another container.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the gratin cool completely after baking.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 20-30 minutes).
• If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming in the oven.
• You can also microwave individual portions on medium power until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin.

Can I use different root vegetables in this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other root vegetables like turnips or rutabagas. Just ensure they are sliced thinly for even cooking.

How do I make this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based milk alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for added flavor.

Can I prepare the Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin the night before?

Yes! Simply follow the recipe up until covering and baking. Refrigerate overnight and bake when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Making this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is not only simple but also brings warmth and joy to any meal. The combination of sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets topped with creamy cheeses is sure to impress your family and friends. I hope you find joy in preparing this dish as much as we do! Happy cooking!