Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is a rich, comforting dish that combines tender, earthy root vegetables layered in a creamy cheese sauce and baked to golden perfection. If you’re tired of dry, overcooked chicken breasts or uninspired vegetable sides, this recipe delivers a satisfying, decadent gratin that elevates humble ingredients into a crowd-pleasing masterpiece.

At dishfoody.com, this dish highlights how simple produce can be transformed into a luxurious, creamy delight. This article covers why this recipe works, ingredient selection, preparation tips, detailed baking instructions, expert advice, flavor variations, serving ideas, and FAQs.

Why This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin Recipe Works

• Uses a medley of root vegetables for diverse textures and sweet earthiness
• Combines creamy cheese sauce with a golden crust for indulgence
• Perfect for holiday meals, family dinners, or special occasions

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Best Ingredients for This Recipe

Potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and turnips provide sweetness and hearty texture. Gruyère or cheddar cheese creates a creamy, flavorful sauce. Fresh garlic and herbs add depth.

Buying Tips

Select firm, blemish-free vegetables. Use freshly grated cheese with robust flavor.

Substitutions

Sweet potatoes or butternut squash add a sweeter note. Use Parmesan for sharper cheese flavor.

Ingredients & Prep for Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

• 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 parsnips, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 turnips, peeled and thinly sliced
• 3 cups shredded Gruyère or cheddar cheese
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Pre-Cooking Prep

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter. Peel and thinly slice all vegetables evenly.

Cooking Method

1. In a saucepan, heat cream with garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper until warm.
2. Arrange a layer of potatoes at the bottom of the baking dish. Sprinkle with cheese.
3. Add a layer of carrots, then parsnips and turnips, layering each with cheese in between.
4. Pour warm cream mixture evenly over the vegetables.
5. Finish with a generous layer of cheese on top.
6. Cover with foil and bake 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 20-30 minutes until bubbly and golden browned on top.
7. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Doneness Check

Vegetables should be tender and cheese sauce bubbling with rich golden crust.

Resting

Allow resting time so dish firms slightly for easier serving.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

• Slice vegetables evenly for uniform cooking.
• Use freshly grated cheese for best melt and flavor.
• Cover with foil to prevent over-browning, then uncover to finish crust.

Flavor Variations for Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Spicy Twist

Add smoked paprika or cayenne for warmth and complexity.

Keto/Paleo

Use heavy cream and cheese only; omit thicker starch layers.

Global Flavors

• French: Add nutmeg and Gruyère for traditional touch.
• Mediterranean: Use oregano and mix in zucchini or eggplant.
• American: Incorporate bacon bits or caramelized onions.

Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Serve as a side with roasted meats, poultry, or a vegetarian main. Pair with crisp salad and light white wine.

FAQs for Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

• Can I prep ahead? Yes, assemble and refrigerate; bake when ready.
• How to store leftovers? Refrigerate in airtight container up to 3 days; reheat covered.
• Is this gluten-free? Yes, naturally gluten-free with traditional ingredients.

Conclusion

Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin offers a creamy, flavorful way to enjoy a mix of hearty vegetables baked to bubbly, cheesy perfection. It’s a versatile dish that elevates simple roots into elegant, comforting fare. For more cozy recipes, visit dishfoody.com and try our Honey Hot Chicken Salad next!

Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Print Recipe

Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is a comforting, layered dish of thinly sliced root vegetables baked with creamy cheese and a golden crust. Ideal as a side for hearty meals.

• Author: ssam
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 55 mins
• Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 large carrots, thinly sliced
• 1 large parsnip, thinly sliced
• 1 large sweet potato, thinly sliced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

• 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a baking dish.
• 2. In a saucepan, heat heavy cream with garlic until warm.
• 3. Layer sliced vegetables in the baking dish, seasoning each layer with salt, pepper, and thyme.
• 4. Pour warm cream mixture over the vegetables.
• 5. Sprinkle Gruyère and Parmesan evenly on top.
• 6. Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
• 7. Remove foil and bake an additional 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
• 8. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

• Use a mandoline for uniform slices.
• Substitute cheeses as preferred.
• Add nutmeg for subtle warmth.
• Great for holiday meals and family dinners.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: cheesy root vegetable gratin, vegetable gratin, cheesy casserole, comfort food