When it comes to comfort food that is both elegant and indulgent, few dishes rival the Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin. This dish takes simple root vegetables—sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets—and transforms them into a creamy, cheesy, and beautifully layered masterpiece.

Perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy winter dinners, or an upscale side dish for any meal, this gratin offers a balance of sweet, earthy, and savory flavors. The addition of rich cream, nutty Parmesan, and melty Gruyère creates a luxurious texture, while fresh thyme and garlic enhance the depth of flavor.

Beyond its deliciousness, this gratin is a showstopper. The layered vegetables create a striking visual effect, making it as stunning on the table as it is satisfying on the palate. Whether you’re serving this for a festive occasion or a casual family dinner, this gratin is bound to become a favorite.

What Makes This Gratin Special?

1. A Beautiful Layered Presentation

Unlike traditional casseroles, this gratin is artfully arranged. The alternating layers of sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets create a gorgeous mosaic of colors, making it a standout dish. Whether you’re cooking for guests or simply treating yourself to a gourmet home-cooked meal, this gratin is as impressive to look at as it is to eat.

2. A Perfect Balance of Sweet, Earthy, and Savory

Each vegetable in this gratin contributes its own distinct flavor profile:

  • Sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness and creamy texture.
  • Parsnips add a mild nuttiness and depth that balances the dish.
  • Beets provide a slightly earthy, rich contrast that complements the other ingredients.

Combined with savory cheeses, garlic, and thyme, these flavors blend together for a bite that is both comforting and complex.

3. A Rich, Creamy Sauce Without Being Overwhelming

One of the key components of any gratin is the sauce that binds everything together. This recipe uses heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version), Parmesan, and Gruyère to create a silky, indulgent texture without making the dish overly heavy. The result is a gratin that feels rich and luxurious yet balanced and satisfying.

4. A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

  • Perfect for the holidays – This gratin is an excellent side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering.
  • Ideal for a cozy dinner – Serve it alongside roast chicken, steak, or a vegetarian main course.
  • Great for meal prep – The dish can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients

A Medley of Root Vegetables:
  • Sweet potatoes, peeled
  • Parsnips, trimmed and peeled
  • Beets, peeled
Creamy & Cheesy Bliss:
  • Heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
  • Grated Parmesan
  • Shredded Gruyère
  • Fresh thyme, minced
  • Garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper

Directions

  1. Prep the Oven & Dish: Preheat to 400°F and grease a baking dish with butter.
  2. Thinly Slice Vegetables: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to cut sweet potatoes, parsnips, and beets into uniform rounds.
  3. Coat with Cream & Cheese: Toss each vegetable separately with cream, Parmesan, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  4. Layer with Precision: Stack vegetables upright in alternating rows within the dish.
  5. Bake in Stages: Cover with foil and bake until tender, then uncover, add Gruyère, and bake until golden and bubbling.
  6. Finish & Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme and enjoy warm.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving Estimate)

  • Calories: ~265 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: ~22g
  • Protein: ~9g
  • Fat: ~17g
  • Sodium: ~292mg
  • Fiber: ~5g
  • Vitamin A: ~4607 IU
  • Calcium: ~246mg

Tips for the Best Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

1. Use a Mandoline for Even Slices

For the best results, slice the vegetables as thinly and evenly as possible. A mandoline slicer is ideal for this, as it ensures uniform thickness, which helps the vegetables cook evenly. If you don’t have a mandoline, a sharp knife will work—just take your time to ensure consistent slices.

2. Keep the Beets from Bleeding into the Dish

Beets are naturally vibrant, but their color can easily spread, turning the entire gratin pink. To prevent this:

  • Coat the beets lightly in cream—just enough to keep them moist, but not so much that they release excess liquid.
  • Layer the beets strategically—place them in separate rows instead of mixing them throughout the dish.
  • Pat the beets dry before layering to reduce excess moisture.

3. Don’t Skimp on the Cheese

The combination of Parmesan and Gruyère gives this gratin a perfect balance of nuttiness, saltiness, and creaminess. If you want to experiment, try adding Fontina, Comté, or Swiss cheese for a slightly different twist.

4. Cover First, Then Uncover for a Crispy Top

Baking the gratin covered for the first portion of the cooking time allows the vegetables to soften without drying out. Then, uncovering it for the last 15-20 minutes helps the top develop a golden, slightly crispy crust, making it beautifully caramelized and flavorful.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the great things about this gratin is how adaptable it is. Whether you want to switch up the vegetables, make it dairy-free, or add extra flavors, here are some great modifications:

1. Swap the Vegetables

  • Use turnips or rutabaga instead of parsnips for a slightly peppery flavor.
  • Add Yukon Gold potatoes for a more classic gratin texture.
  • Try carrots for a sweeter, more vibrant layer.

2. Change Up the Cheese

  • Smoked gouda adds a deep, smoky flavor.
  • Aged cheddar provides a sharper bite.
  • Mozzarella will make the gratin extra gooey.

3. Make It Dairy-Free

  • Use full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream in place of heavy cream.
  • Replace the cheese with a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast.

4. Add Extra Herbs and Spices

  • Rosemary, sage, or oregano can be used instead of thyme.
  • A pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika adds warmth and depth.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can This Gratin Be Made Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply add 5-7 extra minutes to the covered baking time to ensure everything is heated through.

2. Can I Use Pre-Sliced Vegetables?

If you’re short on time, you can use pre-sliced root vegetables from the grocery store. However, freshly sliced vegetables will have better texture and flavor.

3. What Should I Serve with This Dish?

This gratin pairs well with a variety of main courses, including:

  • Roast chicken or turkey for a classic pairing.
  • Grilled steak or pork chops for a hearty meal.
  • A simple green salad for a lighter contrast.

4. Can I Freeze Leftovers?

While gratins are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers. To reheat, place the gratin in a 375°F oven for about 20 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the texture watery.

5. Can I Use a Different Baking Dish?

A 3-quart oval or rectangular baking dish works best, but you can use any similar-sized dish. If using a deeper dish, you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

The Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors, rich textures, and beautiful presentation. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this dish brings warmth and comfort to the table.

With buttery layers of tender root vegetables, a rich and creamy sauce, and a golden cheesy topping, this gratin is bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!