Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is the perfect side dish for any occasion. Combining sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets with rich cream and garlic, this dish is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. Ideal for family gatherings or holiday feasts like Thanksgiving, it showcases the earthy sweetness of root vegetables while providing a comforting, cheesy experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This gratin comes together easily with minimal effort, making it a fantastic choice for busy cooks.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets creates a unique taste that is both savory and slightly sweet.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for any meal, this gratin pairs well with meats or can stand alone as a vegetarian option.
• Elegant Presentation: The colorful layers of root vegetables make this dish a showstopper on any dining table.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy and cheesy, this gratin offers warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help you achieve the best results while making the process smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mandoline slicer
• 3-quart baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Mandoline slicer: Allows you to slice vegetables evenly and thinly, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• 3-quart baking dish: Perfect size for holding all your layered vegetables while providing enough space for even cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess in your main cooking area.

Ingredients

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)
• 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

How to Make Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400˚F. Grease a 3-quart baking dish with softened butter to prevent the gratin from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Slice the sweet potato, parsnips, and beets into very thin rounds. Using a mandoline slicer makes this task easier. Transfer each type of vegetable into its own bowl.

Step 3: Season the Vegetables

Pour 4 tablespoons of cream over each bowl of sweet potatoes and parsnips. Use 2 tablespoons of cream over the beets. Top each bowl with ½ ounce of grated Parmesan and 1 teaspoon of minced thyme. Season with salt and pepper before tossing until well coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Base Layer

Pour the remaining 1/4 cup cream into the bottom of your greased baking dish. Sprinkle it with another ½ ounce of Parmesan cheese along with minced garlic.

Step 5: Layer the Vegetables

Take a stack of sweet potatoes and line them at an angle at the top of the baking dish. Follow this with a row of parsnips and then beets. Repeat until all vegetables are used up, creating six rows in total.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Once layered, season the top of your gratin with salt, pepper, and sprinkle on any remaining Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for about 30 minutes or until the vegetables become soft.

Step 8: Add Gruyere Cheese

After initial baking is done, uncover your gratin and top it off with shredded gruyere cheese.

Step 9: Bake Uncovered

Return the gratin to the oven uncovered. Bake for an additional 18 to 20 minutes until vegetables are fork-tender and cheese has melted beautifully on top.

Step 10: Garnish & Serve

Finally, finish off your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves before serving hot. Enjoy!

How to Serve Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin makes a stunning side dish that pairs well with many meals. Its creamy and cheesy goodness enhances any dining experience, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

For a Festive Occasion

• With Roast Turkey: Serve alongside roast turkey for a comforting Thanksgiving meal.
• As Part of a Holiday Feast: This gratin complements ham or roast beef beautifully, adding a rich flavor.

As a Cozy Family Dinner

• With Grilled Chicken: Pair with grilled chicken breast for a simple yet delicious weeknight dinner.
• Accompanied by a Green Salad: A fresh green salad balances the richness of the gratin, providing crunch and brightness.

For Meal Prepping

• Heat and Eat: Make ahead and store in the fridge; reheat portions as needed during the week.
• With Leftover Proteins: Serve with leftover meats for an easy, satisfying meal.

How to Perfect Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

To achieve the best results with your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh root vegetables enhance flavor and texture significantly.
• Slice Evenly: Cut vegetables into uniform thin slices to ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
• Layer Wisely: Alternate layers of vegetables for optimal flavor distribution and visual appeal.
• Season Generously: Don’t hold back on salt and pepper; proper seasoning elevates the dish’s overall taste.
• Cover While Baking: Covering with foil prevents cheese from burning while allowing the vegetables to soften perfectly.
• Let It Rest: Allow the gratin to rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps set the layers and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is versatile enough to pair with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy garlic bread provides excellent texture contrast and absorbs any extra sauce.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness complements the sweetness of the gratin beautifully.
3. Steamed Broccoli: This bright green vegetable adds color and is rich in nutrients.
4. Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine lettuce and tangy dressing balance out the creaminess of the gratin.
5. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots enhance the earthy flavors of root vegetables in your gratin.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf offers a nutty flavor that pairs nicely without overwhelming the dish.
7. Mashed Potatoes: For potato lovers, pairing with mashed potatoes creates an indulgent experience worth savoring.
8. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds freshness and color while being quick to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin, it is easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes that can affect your dish.

• Not using fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture. Always choose the best quality ingredients for your gratin.
• Ignoring the thickness of slices – Unevenly sliced vegetables can lead to uneven cooking. Use a mandoline for uniform thinness.
• Over or under-seasoning – Proper seasoning is crucial. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
• Skipping the resting time – Allowing the gratin to rest after baking helps flavors meld. Don’t skip this step for the best results.
• Using low-fat dairy – Low-fat options won’t produce the same creamy texture. Stick with heavy cream for richness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

• Use a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) until warm.
• Stovetop – Heat on low, stirring occasionally, until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I substitute other vegetables in Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other root vegetables like carrots or turnips for different flavors.

How do I make my Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin even creamier?

Increase the amount of cream or add extra cheese like mozzarella for a gooier texture.

Is there a vegan version of Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin?

Absolutely! Substitute dairy with plant-based cream and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without animal products.

Can I prepare Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and bake just before serving for convenience.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its creamy layers of root veggies make it a perfect side dish or comforting main course. Feel free to customize it by adding spices or different types of cheese based on your taste preferences!