Are you ready to transform ordinary vegetables into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds? Our Au Gratin Turnips and Potatoes recipe is the ultimate culinary magic trick that turns humble root vegetables into a creamy, cheesy sensation that's impossible to resist. With a golden, crispy cheese crust and tender, flavor-packed layers, this dish is about to become your new go-to side that elevates any meal from ordinary to extraordinary!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large turnips, peeled and sliced
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
- Wash and peel the turnips and potatoes. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice them into thin, uniform rounds approximately 1/8 inch thick to ensure even cooking.
- Layer the sliced turnips and potatoes alternately in the prepared baking dish, creating overlapping rows to ensure even distribution of vegetables.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Season the cream mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Pour the seasoned cream evenly over the layered vegetables, ensuring all slices are moistened. The cream will help create a rich, creamy texture during baking.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the vegetables, covering the entire surface to create a golden, crispy cheese crust.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, creating a loose tent to prevent the cheese from burning while allowing the vegetables to steam and become tender.
- Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the vegetables are fork-tender.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 10 minutes. This allows the cream to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish, garnishing with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- Slice Uniformly: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to create even, thin slices (about 1/8 inch thick) to ensure consistent cooking and texture.
- Choose the Right Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with Gruyère or a blend of cheeses for more complex flavor.
- Don't Rush the Resting: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps the cream set and makes serving much easier.
- Prevent Burning: Cover with foil for the first part of baking to prevent the cheese from burning while allowing vegetables to become tender.
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with salt and pepper in the cream mixture - it's key to developing deep flavor.
- Make Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
- Enhance with Herbs: Consider adding fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives for an extra layer of flavor and beautiful presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 70mg
