Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Name: Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups sliced potatoes; 2 cups sliced carrots; 2 cups sliced parsnips; 1 cup chopped onions; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup milk; 3 tablespoons butter; 3 tablespoons flour; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Delight your guests this Thanksgiving with a comforting Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin. Layered with an array of hearty root vegetables and smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, this dish is the perfect side to elevate your holiday feast. You’ll love the blend of flavors and textures, making it a cozy addition to your dinner table.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-18T14:41:04.953Z

This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of warmth and comfort, perfect for family gatherings.

A Perfect Holiday Side

When planning your Thanksgiving feast, finding the right side dishes can elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. The Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is a stellar choice, blending comfort and flavor in every bite. Root vegetables are not only nutritious but also add a wonderful earthiness to the dish. Their natural sweetness, combined with a rich, cheesy sauce, creates a delightful contrast that will impress even the pickiest eaters at your table.

This gratin is not just delicious; it also enhances the festive spirit of the holiday. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness will have your guests asking for seconds, making it an instant classic among your Thanksgiving spread. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of the Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is its versatility. While the recipe calls for potatoes, carrots, and parsnips, you can easily swap in your favorite root vegetables. Sweet potatoes, turnips, or even beets can all work beautifully in this dish, each adding their unique flavor profile and color. Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables to create a gratin that reflects your personal taste and the ingredients available in your area.

Moreover, you can adjust the cheese varieties to suit your palate. While sharp cheddar cheese gives that classic flavor, blending it with Gruyère or fontina can create an even richer, more complex taste. By personalizing this recipe, you're not only crafting a unique dish but also making it special for your holiday gathering.

Serving and Storing Tips

When serving your Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin, consider pairing it with a light salad or roasted meats. Its creaminess complements savory dishes, making it a fantastic accompaniment to turkey or ham. For a touch of freshness, serve with a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like thyme or parsley, right before serving to enhance the visual appeal.

If you find yourself with leftovers, rest assured that this gratin stores beautifully. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for about 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain its creamy texture—just add a splash of milk to rehydrate the cheese sauce before warming up. This ensures that you can enjoy this comforting dish long after the holiday festivities have ended.

Ingredients

Root Vegetables

2 cups sliced potatoes
2 cups sliced carrots
2 cups sliced parsnips
1 cup chopped onions

Cheese Sauce

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons flour
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine the root vegetables and cheese sauce in a greased baking dish.

Instructions

Prepare root vegetables

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice all root vegetables evenly and set aside.

Make cheese sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cream.

Bring to a simmer and add cheese, stirring until melted. Season with salt and pepper.

Layer the gratin

In a greased baking dish, layer the sliced root vegetables, pour cheese sauce over them, and repeat until all ingredients are used.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Let the gratin sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Nutritional Benefits of Root Vegetables

Root vegetables are packed with essential nutrients that provide numerous health benefits. Potatoes, for instance, are a rich source of vitamins C and B6, as well as potassium. Carrots are known for their high beta-carotene content, which is great for maintaining healthy vision and skin. Parsnips are a good source of fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you full longer, making this gratin not just a comfort food but also a nutritious option for your holiday table.

Including a variety of root vegetables in this gratin also ensures a range of flavors, textures, and colors. This not only contributes to its visual appeal but also enhances its health benefits. By choosing seasonal root vegetables, you’re opting for fresher and more flavorful produce that can elevate any dish.

Perfecting Your Cheese Sauce

Creating a creamy cheese sauce is crucial to achieving the perfect Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin. Starting with a roux made from butter and flour not only thickens the sauce but also adds depth to the overall flavor. Be sure to gradually whisk in the milk and cream, allowing it to reach a gentle simmer before adding the cheese. This careful process ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce that will envelop your vegetables deliciously.

Experimenting with different types of cheese can also enhance the gratin’s flavor profile. Consider adding a touch of blue cheese for a bold taste or some grated Parmesan for a nutty finish. Adjust the seasoning thoughtfully—other spices like garlic powder, nutmeg, or even a dash of hot sauce can add unique twists to your cheese sauce, making your gratin even more delightful.

Adjusting for Dietary Preferences

If you're looking to make this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin suitable for dietary preferences, there are several easy adjustments you can make. To cater to a vegetarian crowd, simply ensure that the cheese is rennet-free and opt for plant-based dairy alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream for the cheese sauce without compromising on richness.

Gluten-free eaters can enjoy this dish by substituting the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to create the roux for your cheese sauce. These adjustments ensure that everyone at your table can partake in this delicious holiday side dish while adhering to their dietary needs. Remember that these changes can still maintain the integrity and deliciousness of the Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gratin a day in advance and bake it just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for cheese?

You can use a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan option.