Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

If you’re looking for a side dish that wins hearts at every gathering, let me introduce you to my all-time favorite: Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin. This dish is a symphony of flavors and textures—sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets come together in creamy harmony, topped with gooey cheese that melts in your mouth. It’s not just a feast for the taste buds; it’s also a feast for the eyes with its colorful layers!

What makes this gratin so special is its versatility. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner on a busy weeknight or impressing guests at a holiday gathering, this dish shines bright. Trust me; it’s bound to become a beloved recipe in your home just like it is in mine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for any night of the week.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the cheesy goodness and vibrant veggies—it’s an easy way to sneak more nutrition onto their plates!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep it in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve, freeing up your time for other festivities.
• Impressive presentation: The beautiful layers of root vegetables create an eye-catching dish that looks great on any table.
• Comfort food at its finest: Rich and creamy, this gratin warms you up from the inside out—perfect for chilly evenings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin, you only need some wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. 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 is fine for a lighter version)
• 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 parts about this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences:

• Add extra greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for added color and nutrition—just layer them between the root vegetables.
• Switch up the cheese: Replace gruyere with another favorite cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for a different cheesy flavor profile.
• Herb infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a unique twist on flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you want to give your gratin a little kick!

How to Make Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 400˚F. While it’s warming up, grease a 3-quart baking dish with softened butter. This step ensures that your gratin doesn’t stick and allows those delicious golden edges to form.

Step 2: Slice Your Vegetables

Next, slice the sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets into very thin rounds. A mandoline works wonders here if you have one! Once sliced, transfer each type of vegetable into its own bowl. Keeping them separate helps with mixing later.

Step 3: Creamy Coating

Pour 4 tablespoons of cream over each bowl of sweet potatoes and parsnips. For the beets, drizzle 2 tablespoons of cream. Don’t forget to sprinkle each bowl with Parmesan and thyme! Season generously with salt and pepper before tossing everything together until well coated.

Step 4: Build Your Base

Now it’s time to create a cozy foundation! Pour the remaining 1/4 cup of cream into the bottom of your greased baking dish. Sprinkle half an ounce of Parmesan and mix in minced garlic. This will add great flavor right from the start!

Step 5: Layer It Up

Grab stacks of your beautifully sliced vegetables and line them up standing on their sides in the baking dish. Alternate rows starting with sweet potatoes followed by parsnips and then beets. You’ll want about six rows total—getting creative here makes serving even more fun!

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Once all those gorgeous veggies are layered nicely, season the top with salt, pepper, and sprinkle any remaining Parmesan over everything. This will create that delightful crust as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake Until Soft

Cover your gratin with foil and place it in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until those vegetables are softening nicely.

Step 8: Add Gruyere

Carefully uncover your gratin at this point; it’s time for that glorious gruyere! Sprinkle it evenly over the top before returning it back into the oven uncovered.

Step 9: Brown It Up

Bake uncovered for an additional 18 to 20 minutes until everything is fork-tender, cheese has melted perfectly, and you see a light golden brown topping that beckons you to dig in!

Step 10: Garnish & Serve

Finally, finish off your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin with fresh thyme leaves sprinkled on top before serving. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Creating a delicious Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is all about the details, and these tips will help you achieve a perfect dish every time!

• Use a mandoline slicer – Slicing your vegetables very thinly ensures they cook evenly and become perfectly tender. A mandoline makes this task quick and easy, saving you time in the kitchen!
• Experiment with different cheeses – While Parmesan and Gruyere are fantastic choices, feel free to try other melty cheeses like Fontina or Monterey Jack. This will add unique flavor profiles that can elevate your gratin.
• Layer vegetables creatively – Don’t just stack them in order; alternate colors and textures for a stunning presentation. This not only looks beautiful but also enhances the flavors as they meld together during baking.
• Adjust cream for desired richness – If you prefer a lighter version, use whole milk instead of heavy cream. Just keep in mind that it may be less creamy, so adjust seasonings to balance the flavors.
• Rest before serving – Allow the gratin to sit for about 10 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This resting time helps the layers set and makes serving easier while maintaining its beautiful shape.

How to Serve Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is not only a feast for the eyes but also a comforting treat that deserves to be presented beautifully at your table.

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme leaves – A sprinkle of fresh thyme adds a lovely aroma and enhances the herbaceous notes in the dish.
• Chopped parsley – Bright green parsley can provide a pop of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the gratin.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad – A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy gratin.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These sweet and nutty sprouts add texture and flavor, making them an excellent complement to the richness of your gratin.
• Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping into any creamy sauce left on your plate; it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
• Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus provides both color and health benefits, balancing out the heavier elements of your meal while adding an elegant touch.

Now you’re all set to impress with your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin! Enjoy this dish as part of your next gathering or cozy family dinner—your taste buds will thank you!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week or save it for a special occasion. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gratin to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the gratin cool entirely before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, label with the date.

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.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through, removing the foil for the last few minutes to crisp up the top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin.

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

Absolutely! You can substitute other root vegetables like carrots or turnips. Just make sure they are sliced evenly for consistent cooking.

How do I make my Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin creamier?

To achieve a creamier texture, consider adding more heavy cream or using a blend of cream and milk. A splash of vegetable broth can also enhance flavor while keeping it moist.

What can I serve with my Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin?

This gratin pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a fresh salad. It’s versatile enough to complement many main dishes!

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin a try! It’s not just a side dish; it’s a comforting addition to any meal that brings warmth and cheer to your table. Enjoy the process of making it as much as savoring each delightful bite. Happy cooking!