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Root Vegetable Gratin with Sweet Potatoes, Parsnips, and Beets

This cozy and comforting gratin features layers of sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets swimming in a creamy blend of heavy cream and cheese, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time50 minutes
Total Time1 hour 20 minutes
Course: Side Dish, Vegetarian
Cuisine: American
Keyword: comfort food, Gratin, Holiday Dish, Root Vegetables, Vegetarian Recipe
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

For greasing the dish

  • 1 tablespoon softened, unsalted butter For greasing the baking dish.

Root Vegetables

  • 1-2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 3-4 large parsnips, trimmed and peeled
  • 3-5 small beets, peeled and sliced into thin rounds

Cream & Cheese

  • 14 tablespoons heavy cream Divided.
  • 4 ounces Parmesan cheese, finely grated Split into portions.
  • 1 ounce shredded Gruyère cheese For topping.

Seasoning

  • 1 tablespoon freshly chopped thyme Divided, plus extra for garnish.
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced
  • a pinch sea salt Or to taste.
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and generously coat a 3-quart baking dish with softened butter.
  • Using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife, slice sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets into thin, even rounds.

Coating and Layering

  • In separate bowls, drizzle 4 tablespoons of cream over sweet potatoes and parsnips, and 2 tablespoons over the beets.
  • Add 1/2 ounce of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme to each bowl. Toss to coat.
  • Pour 1/4 cup of cream into the bottom of the buttered baking dish and sprinkle in 1/2 ounce of Parmesan cheese and minced garlic.
  • Arrange the vegetable slices upright in rows, alternating between sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets.

Baking

  • Season the top of the gratin with salt, pepper, and remaining Parmesan cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and sprinkle with shredded Gruyère cheese. Bake uncovered for an additional 18-20 minutes until golden brown.

Finishing Touch

  • Sprinkle with fresh thyme and serve warm.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, consider adding a splash of vegetable broth or a bay leaf. You can prepare the layers in advance and store in the fridge until ready to bake.