Root Vegetable Au Gratin

This Root Vegetable Au Gratin is a delightful twist on the classic dish, featuring a vibrant array of Yukon gold potatoes, sweet potatoes, and beets. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, this recipe not only looks stunning but also packs a flavorful punch. The creamy cheese sauce elevates the natural sweetness of the vegetables, making it an unforgettable side dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Layering: Each layer of root vegetables harmonizes beautifully with the rich cheese sauce for a taste experience that is both comforting and exciting.
• Visual Appeal: The colorful combination of yellow, orange, and red vegetables creates a stunning presentation that will impress your guests.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can whip this dish together quickly, allowing more time to enjoy with loved ones.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with chicken, beef, or turkey for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This au gratin keeps well in the fridge and can be easily reheated, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on this delicious Root Vegetable Au Gratin, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready makes cooking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or baking dish
• Mandolin (optional)
• Pot
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or baking dish: Provides even heat distribution and can go from stovetop to oven seamlessly.
• Mandolin (optional): Ensures uniform slicing of vegetables, which promotes even cooking and enhances presentation.
• Pot: Ideal for making the creamy cheese sauce; a sturdy pot prevents burning.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring sauces without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

This Root Vegetable Au Gratin is made with wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully.

For the Vegetables

• 2 large Yukon potatoes
• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• 2 medium beets
• 1 onion

For the Cheese Sauce

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 tbsp dijon mustard
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated)

How to Make Root Vegetable Au Gratin

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you’re done assembling the dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Peel and thinly slice the Yukon potatoes, sweet potatoes, beets, and onion using a knife or mandolin.
2. Set aside in separate bowls to keep them organized.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a pot over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and cook until thickened enough to coat a wooden spoon.
4. Add shredded cheddar cheese and dijon mustard into the thickened sauce; stir until completely melted. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. In your cast iron skillet or baking dish, add a thin layer of sliced onions at the bottom.
2. Arrange slices of potatoes and beets vertically in layers above the onions.
3. Sprinkle thinly cut onions between layers as desired.

Step 5: Add Cheese Sauce

Pour your creamy cheese mixture generously over all layers of vegetables. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across.

Step 6: Top with Parmesan

Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over everything for an extra cheesy finish.

Step 7: Bake

1. Cover your dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
2. After 30 minutes, remove foil and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Enjoy your delightful Root Vegetable Au Gratin!

How to Serve Root Vegetable Au Gratin

This Root Vegetable Au Gratin is a delightful dish that can complement various meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad made with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy gratin.

Serve with Grilled Chicken

• A piece of grilled chicken seasoned with herbs pairs well, balancing the richness of the au gratin.

Enjoy with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts provide a colorful and nutritious side that complements the au gratin beautifully.

Add a Tangy Sauce

• Drizzle a tangy vinaigrette or homemade yogurt sauce over the dish for an extra layer of flavor.

Accompany with Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of fresh crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness from the gratin.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your serving with chopped parsley or chives for a burst of freshness and color on your plate.

How to Perfect Root Vegetable Au Gratin

To achieve the best results with your Root Vegetable Au Gratin, keep these tips in mind.

• Use uniform slices: Ensure all vegetables are sliced evenly for consistent cooking and texture.
• Layer smartly: Alternate layers of different vegetables for visual appeal and balanced flavor.
• Adjust cheese types: Experiment with different cheeses, such as gouda or mozzarella, for varied flavors.
• Let it rest: Allow the gratin to sit for about 10 minutes after baking; this helps it set up nicely.
• Cover tightly: When baking initially, cover the dish well to prevent excess browning before the inside is cooked.
• Add spices: Incorporate spices like nutmeg or paprika into your cheese sauce for added depth.

Best Side Dishes for Root Vegetable Au Gratin

Enhance your meal by serving these tasty side dishes alongside your Root Vegetable Au Gratin. They will create a well-rounded dining experience.

1. Steamed Asparagus
   Lightly steamed and seasoned asparagus offers a fresh crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy gratin.
2. Quinoa Salad
   A protein-packed quinoa salad tossed with herbs and lemon provides a nutritious balance to your meal.
3. Garlic Green Beans
   Sautéed green beans in garlic add flavor and texture while being simple to prepare.
4. Zucchini Fritters
   Crispy zucchini fritters add a fun twist, bringing extra veggies into your meal while complementing the flavors of the gratin.
5. Crispy Roasted Potatoes
   Oven-roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary create a delightful crispy exterior that pairs wonderfully.
6. Cauliflower Rice
   Light and fluffy cauliflower rice serves as a low-carb option that absorbs flavors beautifully from the au gratin.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and beans make for an eye-catching side dish that’s hearty yet healthy.
8. Herbed Couscous
   Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs is quick to prepare and adds a lovely lightness alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Root Vegetable Au Gratin. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the vegetables: This can lead to mushy textures. Slice your root vegetables evenly and monitor the baking time closely.
• Skipping the cheese sauce: The creamy cheese sauce is what makes this dish special. Don’t rush it; ensure it thickens properly before pouring over the vegetables.
• Not seasoning adequately: Ingredients need flavor! Make sure to season each layer with salt and pepper for a balanced taste throughout.
• Using low-quality cheese: Not all cheeses melt well. Opt for high-quality sharp cheddar and parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
• Neglecting to cover while baking: Covering the dish initially helps cook the vegetables thoroughly without drying them out. Remove the foil towards the end for a crispy top.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it.

Freezing Root Vegetable Au Gratin

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Root Vegetable Au Gratin

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Root Vegetable Au Gratin special?

Root Vegetable Au Gratin combines different textures and flavors from various root vegetables, enhanced by a creamy cheese sauce, making it richer than standard potato gratin.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with carrots, parsnips, or turnips based on your preference or seasonal availability.

How can I make Root Vegetable Au Gratin vegan?

To create a vegan version, substitute dairy milk with almond or soy milk and use vegan cheese alternatives while ensuring no animal-derived gelling agents are included.

What dishes pair well with Root Vegetable Au Gratin?

This dish complements roasted meats like chicken or turkey wonderfully but also works as a hearty vegetarian centerpiece alongside fresh salads.

Final Thoughts

Root Vegetable Au Gratin is not only a beautiful dish but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices, and even switch up the types of root vegetables you use. Give this recipe a try for your next gathering; it’s sure to impress!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Root Vegetable Au Gratin

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Root Vegetable Au Gratin is a vibrant and flavorful dish that transforms classic comfort food into an unforgettable experience. This recipe features layers of Yukon gold potatoes, sweet potatoes, and beets, all enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this au gratin not only dazzles the eyes with its colorful presentation but also delights the palate with its harmonious blend of flavors. Its ease of preparation allows you to spend more time enjoying your meal with loved ones. Pair it with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large Yukon potatoes
• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• 2 medium beets
• 1 onion
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Peel and thinly slice the Yukon potatoes, sweet potatoes, beets, and onion.
3. In a pot over medium heat, melt butter, whisk in flour, then gradually add milk until thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese and dijon mustard until melted.
4. Layer the sliced onions at the bottom of a cast iron skillet or baking dish, followed by vertically arranged layers of root vegetables.
5. Pour cheese sauce evenly over the top and sprinkle with parmesan.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; then remove foil and continue baking for another 20-30 minutes until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 45mg