Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

This beautiful Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is a delightful side dish that combines the sweetness of root vegetables with creamy goodness. Perfect for various occasions, including family gatherings or holiday feasts, this gratin will impress your guests with its vibrant colors and rich flavors. The unique blend of sweet potatoes, beets, and parsnips creates a deliciously comforting dish that pairs well with any entrée.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Colorful Presentation: The vibrant hues of sweet potatoes, beets, and parsnips make this gratin visually appealing on any table.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of cream and cheese enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables, creating a rich flavor profile.
• Versatile Side Dish: This dish complements a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to vegetarian options.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a dinner party, this gratin adds a touch of elegance.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mandoline slicer
• 3-quart baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mandoline slicer: Ensures even slicing of vegetables for uniform cooking and presentation.
• 3-quart baking dish: The perfect size to accommodate all the layered vegetables while allowing even baking.
• Mixing bowls: Helps separate ingredients for easy mixing and coating.

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 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

How to Make Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Slice the sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets into very thin rounds. A mandoline slicer makes this step easier. Place each type of vegetable into its own bowl.

Step 3: Coat the Vegetables

Pour 4 tablespoons of cream over each bowl of sweet potatoes and parsnips. Add 2 tablespoons of cream over the beets. Top each bowl with ½ ounce of grated Parmesan and 1 teaspoon of minced thyme. Season generously with salt and pepper. Toss until all slices are well coated.

Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish

Pour the remaining ¼ cup cream into the bottom of your greased baking dish. Sprinkle with ½ ounce of Parmesan and add minced garlic.

Step 5: Layer the Vegetables

Take a stack of sweet potato slices and line them standing up on a bias at one end of the baking dish. Follow with a row of parsnips, then a row of beets. Repeat until you’ve created six rows using all vegetables.

Step 6: Season and Bake

Season the top layer with salt, pepper, and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan. Cover with foil and bake for about 30 minutes or until vegetables are soft.

Step 7: Add Gruyere Cheese

After baking covered, uncover your gratin and top it with shredded gruyere cheese.

Step 8: Final Bake

Return the gratin to the oven uncovered. Continue to bake for an additional 18 to 20 minutes or until vegetables are fork-tender, cheese has melted beautifully, and the top is lightly browned.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Finish off by sprinkling fresh thyme leaves over your delicious Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin before serving warm. Enjoy!

How to Serve Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is a versatile dish that can complement many meals. Whether for a festive gathering or a simple family dinner, serving suggestions can elevate its appeal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A light, crisp salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich gratin. Consider a mixed greens salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette.

Serve Alongside Roasted Chicken

• The savory flavors of roasted chicken pair beautifully with the creamy texture of the gratin, making for a comforting meal.

Accompany with Steamed Green Beans

• Bright green beans add color and crunch. Simply steam them and season lightly with salt for an easy side.

Enjoy with Grilled Fish

• A mild, flaky fish such as cod or tilapia complements the earthiness of root vegetables without overpowering them.

Present with Herb-Infused Quinoa

• Fluffy quinoa cooked in vegetable broth and tossed with herbs makes for a nutritious and filling side dish.

Add Some Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for scooping up the cheesy goodness from your plate, enhancing the overall experience.

How to Perfect Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

To ensure your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use a Mandoline: Slicing your vegetables evenly ensures they cook uniformly, resulting in a consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Layer Thoughtfully: Alternate layers of sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets to create visual appeal and balanced flavors in each bite.
• Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Generously season each layer with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables.
• Cover During Initial Baking: Covering the gratin initially helps steam the vegetables, ensuring they become tender before browning.
• Watch for Browning: Keep an eye on the gratin during the final baking stage to prevent over-browning; you want a golden top, not burnt edges.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the gratin to rest for about 10 minutes after baking will help it set up better for easier serving.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

If you’re looking to round out your meal featuring Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin, here are some excellent side dishes that work well together.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide an indulgent touch that pairs well with root vegetables.
2. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Oven-roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil and sea salt add crunch and flavor diversity to your plate.
3. Herb Roasted Potatoes: Small potatoes seasoned with fresh herbs complement the gratin while adding additional heartiness.
4. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots enhance the dish’s sweetness profile while providing vibrant color to your table.
5. Spinach Salad: Fresh spinach topped with nuts and dried fruit offers a refreshing balance alongside the richness of the gratin.
6. Sautéed Mushrooms: Earthy mushrooms sautéed in garlic butter bring depth and umami to your meal’s flavor profile.
7. Creamed Spinach: A rich creamed spinach dish adds creaminess that harmonizes nicely with cheesy root vegetables.
8. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly seasoned zucchini noodles make for a low-carb option that pairs well without overwhelming flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help ensure your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin turns out perfectly.

• Boldly slice vegetables too thick: Thick slices will result in uneven cooking. Use a mandoline or sharp knife to create thin, even rounds for consistent texture.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoned vegetables can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with salt and pepper during preparation to enhance the dish’s overall taste.
• Ignoring the baking time: Overbaking can dry out the gratin while underbaking can leave vegetables hard. Check for doneness periodically to achieve the ideal tender texture.
• Neglecting to layer properly: Random layering may cause uneven cooking. Follow a structured layering method for better heat distribution and presentation.
• Forgetting about fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor at the end. Don’t skip this step; they elevate the dish’s taste and look.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3–5 days.
• Allow the gratin to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
• Label with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

• Oven: Preheat to 350˚F and cover with foil. Bake for 20–25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize my Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin?

You can customize your gratin by adding other root vegetables like carrots or turnips, adjusting the cheese types, or incorporating spices like nutmeg or paprika for added flavor.

Can I use different cheeses in the Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, or feta. Each will bring its own unique taste to the dish.

What makes this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin special?

This gratin stands out due to its combination of sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets that create a beautiful color palette along with rich flavors enhanced by creamy textures.

How do I know when my Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is done?

The gratin is done when the vegetables are fork-tender and the cheese on top is melted and lightly browned. Check it after about 30 minutes of baking time.

Can I prepare this gratin ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin up to a day in advance. Just assemble it and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for any gathering or holiday meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on seasonal vegetables or personal preferences, ensuring it always suits your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious side dish that everyone will love!