Here’s a cozy and elegant side dish: Root Vegetable Gratin with Sweet Potatoes. It’s layered with tender sweet potatoes, earthy root veggies, creamy sauce, and golden melted cheese — perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or a hearty vegetarian main.
🥔 Root Vegetable Gratin with Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients (Serves 6–8):
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2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
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1 parsnip, peeled and thinly sliced
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1 small rutabaga or turnip, peeled and thinly sliced
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1 carrot, peeled and thinly sliced
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1 small red or golden beet (optional), peeled and thinly sliced
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1½ cups heavy cream or half-and-half
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
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¾ cup grated Gruyère or sharp white cheddar cheese
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tablespoon butter (for greasing dish)
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Optional: a pinch of nutmeg for warmth
Instructions:
🔹 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
Grease a 9×9-inch or similar baking dish with butter.
🔹 2. Prepare the cream mixture:
In a small saucepan, warm the cream with garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Bring just to a simmer, then remove from heat and set aside.
🔹 3. Assemble the gratin:
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Layer the sliced vegetables in the dish, alternating colors for a beautiful look.
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After each layer, season lightly with salt and pepper and sprinkle some cheese.
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Repeat until all vegetables are used (reserve a bit of cheese for the top).
🔹 4. Pour the warm cream mixture evenly over the vegetables.
Tap the dish gently to help it settle.
🔹 5. Top with remaining cheese.
🔹 6. Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
Then uncover and bake another 20–25 minutes, until golden and bubbly, and veggies are fork-tender.
🔹 7. Cool slightly before serving to help it set.
✅ Tips & Variations:
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Use a mandoline for even, thin slices — this helps everything cook evenly.
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Add leeks or onions for extra flavor between layers.
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Swap in Yukon gold potatoes or purple potatoes for more color.
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Make it dairy-free with full-fat coconut milk and vegan cheese.
Would you like a make-ahead or freezer-friendly version of this?