Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that will make your taste buds dance, then this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is just what you need! It’s a delightful medley of sweet potatoes, beets, and parsnips, all lovingly enveloped in creamy goodness and topped with melted cheese. This recipe has become a cherished favorite in our home, especially during special occasions like Thanksgiving or family gatherings. But honestly, it’s perfect for any day of the week when you want to add a little comfort to your meal.

The beauty of this gratin lies not only in its vibrant colors but also in its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or an elegant holiday feast, this dish is sure to impress your loved ones. Let’s dive into why this recipe is such a winner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a handful of simple steps, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready without too much fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Packed with wholesome ingredients, even picky eaters won’t be able to resist these cheesy layers of goodness!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready—perfect for stress-free entertaining.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet and earthy root vegetables paired with creamy cheese is simply irresistible!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin, we’re using simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily tweak it to suit your tastes or use what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some sliced carrots or turnips for an extra veggie boost.
• Switch Up the Cheese: If gruyere isn’t your favorite, feel free to use cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Boost: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or sage to give it a unique twist.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegan cheese for a plant-based version that everyone will enjoy!

How to Make Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400˚F. This ensures that your gratin bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden top we all crave.

Step 2: Prepare Your Vegetables

Slice the sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets into very thin rounds. Using a mandoline makes this job easier! Each vegetable gets its own bowl because they need different amounts of cream.

Step 3: Coat the Veggies

Pour 4 tablespoons of cream over each bowl of sweet potatoes and parsnips. For the beets, use 2 tablespoons. Add half an ounce of grated Parmesan and one teaspoon of minced thyme into each bowl as well. Season generously with salt and pepper before tossing everything together until well coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Gratin

Pour the remaining 1/4 cup cream into your greased baking dish. Sprinkle half an ounce of Parmesan and minced garlic on top. Then start layering! Stand up your sweet potato slices at one end of the dish; follow them with parsnips and then beets. Repeat until you’ve created beautiful rows.

Step 5: Bake Away!

Season the top with salt, pepper, and sprinkle on any remaining Parmesan before covering it with foil. Bake for about 30 minutes or until those veggies are soft.

Step 6: Melt That Cheese!

After 30 minutes, uncover your gratin and sprinkle on the shredded gruyere. Pop it back in the oven uncovered for another 18-20 minutes until everything is fork-tender and golden brown on top.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Finally, finish off your gratin with fresh thyme leaves sprinkled on top before serving warm. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin will surely become a beloved staple at your table just as it has at mine!

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Creating the perfect Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is all about technique and a few handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Use a mandoline for even slices: This tool ensures your vegetables are sliced uniformly, allowing for even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
• Layer with care: Alternate the layers of sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets creatively. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully as they bake.
• Adjust cream for desired creaminess: If you prefer a richer gratin, feel free to increase the amount of heavy cream. Just remember that using whole milk will yield a less creamy consistency.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the gratin to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely and makes serving easier.
• Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh herbs like rosemary or sage can introduce delightful new flavors. Feel free to mix and match according to your taste!

How to Serve Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Presenting your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin in a visually appealing way can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delicious side dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme leaves: A sprinkle of fresh thyme not only adds color but also complements the earthy flavors of the root vegetables.
• Chopped chives: These provide a mild onion flavor and add a vibrant green color that contrasts beautifully with the gratin.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle just before serving adds richness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Green Salad: A fresh salad filled with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich gratin.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These little gems, roasted until crispy, provide a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy gratin.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For those who can’t get enough comfort food, garlic mashed potatoes add an extra layer of creaminess while complementing the root vegetables beautifully.
• Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus spears bring brightness and texture to your plate, balancing out the richness of the gratin.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself on a cozy evening at home, this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is sure to impress! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is not only a delightful dish to enjoy fresh out of the oven, but it’s also perfect for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time and store leftovers for future meals!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gratin to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• Let the gratin cool down completely.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy identification.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C).
• Place the gratin in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• For a crispy top, uncover during the last 5-10 minutes of reheating.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other root vegetables like carrots or turnips. Just ensure they have a similar cooking time as sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version. Just note that it might alter the consistency slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and cheer to any table, especially during special gatherings. Don’t hesitate to try it out; I’m sure it will become a favorite for you and your loved ones. Happy cooking!