Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and sophistication, look no further than Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin. This mouthwatering casserole brings together the earthy flavors of root vegetables with the rich creaminess of cheese, making it a perfect side dish or even a vegetarian main course. With its golden, bubbling top and tender layers of potatoes, carrots, and parsnips, this gratin is not just a feast for the palate but also a visual delight for your dining table. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a holiday, or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinners, this gratin will satisfy everyone at the table. Perfect for cool evenings, it’s a warm hug on a plate that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is not just another casserole; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing. Here are some compelling reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of cheddar, Gruyère, or a mix of cheeses creates a depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the root vegetables. The addition of garlic and thyme enhances the dish further, making every bite a delightful experience.
• Versatile Dish: This gratin can easily be served as a side dish alongside your favorite roast or as a standalone vegetarian main course. It pairs beautifully with various proteins, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this gratin is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. It’s a dish that allows you to spend more time with your guests rather than slaving away in the kitchen.
• Health Benefits: Packed with nutritious root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and parsnips, this dish is high in vitamins and minerals. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in more veggies into your diet, especially for picky eaters.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s something incredibly comforting about a cheesy casserole bubbling away in the oven. The warm, creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a dish that feels like home.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it’s a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. The dish offers a hearty flavor that can easily satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Secondly, it’s an excellent way to utilize seasonal root vegetables. During the colder months, root vegetables are abundant and often at their best. Incorporating them into this gratin not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that you’re enjoying fresh, seasonal produce.

Additionally, this gratin is highly customizable. You can swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Sweet potatoes, turnips, or even butternut squash can be excellent additions, allowing you to personalize the dish to your liking.

Finally, the recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the gratin a day in advance, refrigerate it, and then bake it right before serving. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to enjoy great food without the last-minute stress.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

To create the perfect Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Vegetables:
  • 2 cups potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 cups carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 cups parsnips, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 cup onion, finely chopped
• Cheese:
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or a mix)
• Cream:
  • 2 cups heavy cream
• Seasonings:
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• Others:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

In addition to the ingredients, here are the recommended utensils you’ll need for this recipe:

• 1 large mixing bowl
• 1 whisk
• 1 9×13 inch baking dish
• Aluminum foil
• 1 knife for slicing vegetables
• 1 cutting board
• 1 spatula for layering ingredients

Detailed Recipe Steps

Follow these detailed steps to prepare your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your gratin cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, carrots, parsnips, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix well until all the vegetables are evenly coated.
3. Layer the Gratin: Grease your baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Layer half of the root vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over this layer.
4. Add More Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining root vegetable mixture and top with the remaining cheese. This creates a delightful melty layer in the center of the gratin.
5. Make the Cream Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and olive oil. Once combined, pour this mixture evenly over the layered vegetables and cheese in the baking dish. This cream will help cook the vegetables and create a luscious sauce.
6. Add Breadcrumbs: If you desire a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the gratin. This step is optional but adds a delightful crunch.
7. Bake the Gratin: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. Your gratin is ready when the top is golden brown and the vegetables are tender.
8. Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the gratin from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin as a delightful side dish or comforting main course!

FAQs

In conclusion, the Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is a delightful recipe that combines the best of comfort food with healthy, seasonal ingredients. Its versatility makes it suitable for various occasions, and the ease of preparation means you can enjoy it without stress. We hope you give this recipe a try and experience the joy it brings to your table. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below, and if you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends! For more delicious ideas, check out this creamy garlic recipe to add to your meal repertoire.

Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

This comforting Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is a delicious blend of potatoes, carrots, and parsnips, all baked in a creamy cheese sauce, making it a perfect side dish or main course.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Whisk
• Aluminum Foil

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups Potatoes peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 cups Carrots peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 cups Parsnips peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 cup Onion finely chopped
• 2 cups Shredded Cheese cheddar, Gruyère, or a mix
• 2 cups Heavy Cream
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon Thyme fresh or dried
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
• 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs optional, for topping
• to taste Fresh Parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions

 

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, carrots, and parsnips. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme, mixing well to combine.
• In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the root vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the first layer.
• Repeat the layering process with the remaining root vegetable mixture and top with the remaining cheese.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and olive oil. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered vegetables and cheese in the baking dish.
• If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crispy texture.
• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the vegetables are tender.
• Once done, remove the gratin from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

For a healthier option, consider using low-fat cheese and reducing the amount of heavy cream.

Keyword cheesy, comfort food, easy, gratin, vegetable