Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s perfect for gatherings or simply a cozy weeknight at home, then you’ve come to the right place! This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavors that warm the soul. Picture layers of sweet potatoes, beets, and parsnips gently baked in cream and garlic, topped with gooey cheese. It’s a delightful side that brings everyone together around the table.

I love making this gratin for special occasions like Thanksgiving or family get-togethers. It’s an effortless way to impress your guests while still being easy enough for a busy weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal root vegetables!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: With just a few easy steps, this gratin comes together quickly, letting you spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this cheesy, creamy dish. The colorful layers make it both fun and inviting!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this dish in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. Perfect for stress-free entertaining!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets creates a naturally sweet and earthy flavor profile that pairs beautifully with creamy cheese.
• Versatile Side Dish: Whether you’re serving it with roast chicken or as part of a vegetarian feast, this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin fits right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin. Each one plays an important role in bringing out the flavors of our root vegetables.

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 won’t thicken as much)
• 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 great things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add More Veggies: Consider incorporating other root vegetables such as carrots or turnips for added texture and flavor.
• Cheese Swap: If you prefer a different cheese, try using cheddar or feta for a unique twist!
• Herb Infusion: Mix up the herbs by adding rosemary or sage to enhance the earthy flavors of the vegetables.
• Spice It Up: For a hint of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the layers for extra kick!

How to Make Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400˚F (200˚C). This step is essential because it ensures even cooking right from the start. While the oven heats up, grease your baking dish with softened butter to help prevent sticking.

Step 2: Slice Your Vegetables

Slice your sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets into very thin rounds using a mandoline if you have one; it makes this task much easier! Transferring each vegetable into its own bowl helps keep everything organized as we layer them later.

Step 3: Season Each Vegetable

Pour 4 tablespoons of cream over both the sweet potatoes and parsnips while drizzling 2 tablespoons over the beets. Top each bowl with Parmesan and minced thyme before seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Toss everything until well coated—this will ensure every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 4: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Pour any remaining cream into the bottom of your greased baking dish along with a sprinkle of Parmesan and minced garlic. This creamy base will help cook the veggies evenly while adding richness.

Step 5: Layering Time!

Start layering your vegetables by standing up stacks of sweet potatoes at one end of the baking dish. Follow them with rows of parsnips and then beets. Repeat until all are used up—aim for about six beautiful rows!

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Now that all those lovely veggies are layered beautifully in your dish, season the top with salt and pepper along with any remaining Parmesan cheese. This step adds an extra touch of flavor right where it counts!

Step 7: Bake Covered

Cover your gratin with foil and let it bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the vegetables are soft. Covering helps trap moisture so they cook evenly without drying out.

Step 8: Add Gruyere Cheese

Once those veggies are tender, take off the foil and sprinkle shredded gruyere over top. This cheese will melt beautifully as we finish baking!

Step 9: Bake Uncovered

Return your gratin uncovered back into the oven for another 18 to 20 minutes until everything is fork-tender, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Step 10: Garnish & Serve

Finally, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over your gorgeous gratin before serving. Enjoy every cheesy bite as you gather around friends or family—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Creating the perfect Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can make it even better!

• Use a mandoline for even slices – Slicing your vegetables uniformly allows them to cook evenly and ensures a beautiful presentation. A mandoline makes this task quick and effortless.
• Choose seasonal vegetables – Opting for fresh, in-season root vegetables can enhance the flavor of your gratin. Seasonal veggies are often sweeter and more nutrient-dense, making your dish even more delicious.
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing the gratin to cool for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely. This resting period makes it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
• Experiment with cheeses – While Parmesan and Gruyere create a fantastic flavor profile, feel free to mix in other cheeses like aged cheddar or fontina for an extra layer of taste. Each cheese brings its own unique character to the dish!
• Adjust seasoning to taste – Don’t be shy about tasting as you go! Adjusting the salt, pepper, and thyme throughout the cooking process ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

How to Serve Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Presenting your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin can make all the difference at your dinner table. Here are some simple yet effective ideas to elevate your dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs – A sprinkle of additional minced thyme or chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the richness of the gratin.
• Toasted breadcrumbs – For a delightful crunch, consider sprinkling a handful of toasted breadcrumbs on top before serving. This adds texture and an appealing golden finish.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts – The slightly bitter flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts balances out the richness of the gratin beautifully. Simply toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until crispy!
• Green salad with vinaigrette – A light green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy gratin. Think mixed greens or arugula topped with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes.
• Grilled asparagus – The smoky flavor from grilling asparagus pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the root vegetables. Just grill until tender-crisp, season with salt, and enjoy!
• Quinoa pilaf – For a nutritious option, serve your gratin alongside fluffy quinoa pilaf mixed with nuts and dried fruits. This offers not only great texture but also extra fiber and protein.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions at your fingertips, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Enjoy every comforting bite of your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin—it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its creamy goodness throughout the week. Preparing it in advance makes mealtime easy and stress-free!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gratin to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• If you have a large portion, consider dividing it into smaller containers for quick meals.

Freezing

• Cool the gratin completely and cut into portions.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C).
• Place the gratin in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes for a crispy top if desired.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about our Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin:

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other root vegetables like carrots or turnips. Just make sure they are sliced thinly so they cook evenly.

How can I make my Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding herbs such as rosemary or sage, or even a sprinkle of nutmeg for warmth. A touch of garlic powder can also add depth!

Is this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin suitable for special diets?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly. If you’re avoiding dairy, consider using plant-based cream alternatives and non-dairy cheese options.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin! Its layers of sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets create a delightful combination that will impress at any gathering. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this dish promises comfort and warmth. Enjoy every cheesy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!