Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Name: Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced; 2 large carrots, peeled and thinly sliced; 1 large parsnip, peeled and thinly sliced; 1 medium onion, thinly sliced; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Artisanal Baking Recipes

Indulge in the comforting layers of Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin, where earthy root vegetables meet rich, creamy cheese for a delightful side dish.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-02T20:26:03.355Z

This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is a celebration of flavor and texture. The sweetness of root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and parsnips combine beautifully with a rich, cheesy sauce, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, cheesy goodness that complements any meal
Layers of tender root vegetables create a hearty texture
Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or holiday feasts

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is a dish that perfectly embodies comfort food. The combination of creamy cheese and hearty root vegetables not only warms the heart but also satisfies the appetite. This gratin is an excellent way to enjoy the earthy flavors of seasonal produce while indulging in the rich, savory notes of melted cheese. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish during a family gathering or as a main attraction at a holiday feast, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

One of the best aspects of this gratin is its versatility. You can easily customize the root vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Sweet potatoes, turnips, and even beets can be wonderful additions or substitutions, allowing you to experiment with flavors and textures. The creamy cheese sauce ties everything together, making every bite a delightful experience.

A Dish for Every Occasion

This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is not just limited to family dinners; it’s also perfect for potlucks, holiday celebrations, or even as a comforting weeknight meal. Its rich flavor profile and satisfying texture make it an ideal accompaniment to a variety of main dishes, from roasted meats to vegetarian options. Plus, it can be prepared ahead of time and simply baked before serving, making it a convenient choice for busy hosts.

Imagine serving this gratin alongside a succulent roast or a vibrant salad. Its cheesy goodness complements almost any type of cuisine, making it a universal favorite. Its stunning presentation, with a golden, bubbly top, will surely impress your guests and elevate your dining experience.

Tips for the Best Gratin

To achieve the best results with your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin, ensure that your vegetables are sliced evenly. This ensures they cook uniformly and achieve that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Using a mandoline can help achieve consistent thickness, which is key for an evenly cooked dish. Additionally, don’t hesitate to mix different types of cheese to create a unique flavor profile; Gruyère or fontina can add a delightful twist to the classic cheddar.

For an extra crispy topping, consider broiling the gratin for a few minutes at the end of the baking process. Just be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning. You can also add herbs like rosemary or parsley to the breadcrumb topping for an added burst of flavor. These small adjustments can elevate your dish from delicious to extraordinary.

Ingredients

Root Vegetables

2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
2 large carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
1 large parsnip, peeled and thinly sliced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced

Cheese Sauce

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and prepare for baking.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium until simmering. Gradually whisk in flour until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted.

Layer the Vegetables

In a greased baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and onions evenly.

Add the Cheese Sauce

Pour the cheese sauce over the layered vegetables, ensuring all are well coated.

Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the gratin.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Serve

Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy root vegetable gratin!

Serve warm as a side dish to your favorite main courses.

Nutritional Benefits of Root Vegetables

Root vegetables are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Potatoes, carrots, and parsnips are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. These nutrients contribute to overall health and wellbeing, making this gratin not just a tasty indulgence but also a nutritious addition to your meal planning.

Incorporating root vegetables into your diet can help support digestive health, boost your immune system, and provide sustained energy throughout the day. By choosing to make this gratin, you’re not only treating yourself to a comforting dish but also nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers after preparing this delicious gratin, don't worry! Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.

For best results, you might want to add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to restore its creamy texture. This will help prevent the dish from drying out and ensure that every bite remains as delicious as the first.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Yes, feel free to substitute with other root vegetables like sweet potatoes or turnips.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the gratin a day in advance and bake it just before serving.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.