Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin: Creamy, Cozy & The Ultimate Thanksgiving Side Dish

If you’ve been dreaming about a side dish that’s creamy, cozy, and guaranteed to outshine half the Thanksgiving table (sorry turkey, but it’s true), this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin will be your new obsession. Ever noticed how some side dishes feel a little “meh,” while others make people go back for thirds? Yeah… this one belongs to the second category 🙂

I’ve tested so many Thanksgiving Side Dish ideas over the years — some hits, some flops, a few questionable experiments — but a good Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin Recipe never disappoints. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, garlicky goodness layered between tender root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and parsnips. It just *feels* like comfort. Like a warm hug baked in a casserole dish.

If you’re planning Thanksgiving Recipes Side Dishes, or you need an Easy Thanksgiving Vegetable Side to balance all the turkey and stuffing, this gratin is one of the best choices you can make. The combination of Gruyère, parmesan, garlic, thyme, and root vegetables creates a Comfort Food Side Dish that fits perfectly on any holiday table — or honestly, even a regular cozy fall dinner.

And the best part? It’s surprisingly simple. It’s the kind of recipe that looks impressive but doesn’t trap you in the kitchen for hours. So if you’re ready to bring a little creamy magic to your next holiday meal, let’s make the best Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin ever.

Ingredients

• 2 large potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 parsnips, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Butter, for greasing the baking dish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter a medium baking dish.
2. Thinly slice the potatoes, carrots, and parsnips (a mandoline makes life easier!).
3. In a saucepan, heat cream, milk, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper until warm.
4. Arrange a layer of mixed vegetables in the baking dish.
5. Pour a bit of the warm garlic cream mixture over the vegetables.
6. Sprinkle Gruyère and Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Repeat layering until all vegetables and sauce are used.
8. Finish with a generous layer of cheese on top.
9. Bake for 50–60 minutes until the top is golden and vegetables are tender.
10. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving so it sets properly.

Variations

If you love experimenting in the kitchen, here are some fun twists:

• Low Carb Vegetable Bake: Replace some potatoes with extra carrots or parsnips.
• Extra Cheesy: Add sharp cheddar for a richer Creamy Cheddar Vegetable Gratin vibe.
• Portuguese Style: Try a lighter version inspired by Receitas Vegetarianas de Legumes Assados.

Serving & Tips

This gratin shines as a Vegetarian Thanksgiving Side Dish or part of any Cozy Fall Dinner Recipes. Pair it with roasted meats, poultry, or enjoy it on its own with a crisp salad.

For the best texture, slice the vegetables evenly so they cook at the same rate. If you’re serving a crowd, this recipe scales beautifully — just use a larger dish and add 10–15 more minutes of baking time.

Want it extra golden? Switch to broil for the last 3–4 minutes. Just don’t walk away unless you enjoy living dangerously 😉

Final Thoughts

I love how this Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin manages to feel both rustic and elegant. It’s that rare vegetable dish that gets just as much love as the main course — sometimes more. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, a fall family dinner, or just because you’re craving something creamy and comforting, this gratin always delivers.

FAQs

Can I make this gratin ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake the next day and add 10–15 extra minutes.

Can I make it gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free — no swaps needed.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Sweet potatoes, turnips, or even thinly sliced butternut squash work beautifully.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Freeze in portioned containers and reheat at 350°F until warmed through.

Follow me on Pinterest for more Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin recipes!