Unleash the full potential of your root vegetables with this exquisite Potato, Turnip & Carrot Au Gratin recipe. This dish is a delightful medley of flavors, where the humble potato, turnip, and carrot are elevated through a creamy, cheesy sauce, and baked to perfection. Here's how you can impress your dinner guests with this classic, yet versatile side dish.
Ingredients
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 medium turnips, peeled and thinly sliced
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme, fresh or dried
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 1⁄2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Butter for greasing the dish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
- In a large saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Heat gently until just simmering.
⚠️ Note: Avoid boiling as this can curdle the cream.
- Add the potato, turnip, and carrot slices to the warm cream mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Simmer for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Layer the vegetables into the prepared baking dish, alternating layers of potato, turnip, and carrot. Pour the cream mixture over the vegetables.
- Sprinkle the Gruyère cheese over the top, followed by the Parmesan.
- Bake, uncovered, for 50-60 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the top is golden brown.
- Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Nutritional Information
| Serving Size | 1⁄6 of recipe |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 |
| Fat | 26g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Protein | 13g |
Note that this information is approximate and can vary based on ingredient choice and portion size.
💡 Note: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or can stand alone as a main vegetarian dish.
Variations to Explore
- Cheese Variants: Experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar, Emmental, or even a vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or chives to give the dish a different aromatic profile.
- Veggies: Incorporate other root vegetables like parsnips, rutabaga, or sweet potatoes to increase variety and flavor.
Incorporating this Potato, Turnip & Carrot Au Gratin into your culinary repertoire can offer you a deliciously comforting meal. The rich creaminess, combined with the crispiness of the baked cheese topping, provides a texture and flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent. It's a perfect dish for special occasions or for when you simply want to treat yourself to something special.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
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Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. Just cover with foil to prevent the top from drying out and bake an additional 15-20 minutes covered, then uncover for the last 15 minutes to allow the cheese to brown.
What if I don’t like turnips?
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You can easily substitute turnips with another root vegetable like parsnips or increase the amount of carrots and potatoes. Turnips add a unique flavor, but the dish will still be delicious without them.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
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Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to use gluten-free cheese if you are concerned about cross-contamination.
