Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Name: Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups potatoes, thinly sliced; 2 cups carrots, thinly sliced; 1 cup parsnips, thinly sliced; 1 cup turnips, thinly sliced; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp butter, for greasing

Highlighted under: Tasty Treat Recipes

Indulge in the comforting layers of Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin, a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will warm your heart.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-02T17:50:02.917Z

This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is a delightful dish that brings together a medley of root vegetables, creamy cheese, and a crispy topping. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich flavors from a variety of root vegetables
Creamy cheese that creates a luscious texture
A comforting dish perfect for any occasion

      

A Comforting Classic

Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is a timeless dish that combines the best of earthy root vegetables with the indulgence of creamy cheese. This gratin not only serves as a comforting meal but also showcases the natural sweetness of the vegetables. When baked, the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. It's the kind of recipe that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are.

The versatility of this gratin makes it suitable for various occasions, from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings. You can easily adapt the recipe by including seasonal vegetables or experimenting with different cheeses. Each variation offers a new twist on this classic preparation, ensuring that it never gets old. Whether served as a side or a main dish, it is sure to impress your guests.

Nutritional Benefits of Root Vegetables

Root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and turnips are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making them an excellent addition to a balanced diet. Carrots, for instance, are well-known for their high beta-carotene content, which supports vision and immune health. Meanwhile, potatoes provide essential potassium and vitamin C, contributing to overall health.

Incorporating a variety of root vegetables into your meals can help enhance your nutritional intake. Each type brings its own unique set of benefits, offering a spectrum of flavors and textures that can elevate any dish. By enjoying these vegetables in a cheesy gratin, you can indulge in comfort food while still nourishing your body.

Perfect Pairings

Ingredients

Root Vegetables

2 cups potatoes, thinly sliced
2 cups carrots, thinly sliced
1 cup parsnips, thinly sliced
1 cup turnips, thinly sliced

Cheese and Cream

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp butter, for greasing

Gather all the ingredients before you start for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Prep the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and turnips. Add minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper; mix well.

Layer the Gratin

Grease a baking dish with butter. Layer half of the vegetable mixture in the dish. Pour half of the heavy cream over the veggies, then sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese.

Repeat with the remaining vegetables, cream, and cheese.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Serve

Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this cheesy delight warm!

Serve it hot and enjoy the delicious layers!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin, you're in luck! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain its texture and flavor, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

For longer storage, consider freezing the gratin before baking. Assemble the layers in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to bake it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking it as instructed. This allows you to enjoy this cheesy delight anytime you crave comfort food!

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with the root vegetables in your gratin! Sweet potatoes, beets, and rutabagas can add unique flavors and colors to your dish. Mixing in a variety of vegetables not only enhances the taste but also makes for an eye-catching presentation. You can also swap out the cheddar cheese for other types, such as Gruyère or mozzarella, to explore different flavor profiles.

If you want to add a touch of spice, consider incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream mixture. This will elevate the dish with a subtle heat that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the cheese. Regardless of how you choose to customize your gratin, the result will be a delicious and satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! You can substitute any root vegetables you like or have on hand.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance, just bake it right before serving.

→ What cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar and Parmesan are great choices, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses!

→ Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is completely vegetarian!