Name: Turnips Au Gratin
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 3 garlic cloves (smashed); 2 fresh thyme (sprigs); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 pounds turnips (peeled and sliced thinly with a mandoline); 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese; 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

When winter arrives and the days grow colder, I find myself gravitating towards cozy, hearty dishes like Turnips Au Gratin. This creamy and cheesy delight has a way of warming not just your body, but also your soul. I remember the first time I tried Turnips Au Gratin at a friend’s dinner party. The moment I took a bite, the rich flavors enveloped me, and I felt a genuine sense of comfort. It became a staple in my own kitchen, serving as a perfect companion to a casual family dinner or a festive gathering.

Preparing Turnips Au Gratin transforms an ordinary evening into something special. As the delicious aroma fills the air, it entices everyone to come together, creating both anticipation and warmth. This recipe showcases the beauty of simple ingredients, elevating humble turnips into a dish that shines at any table. I often reminisce about those cozy nights spent sharing stories and laughter over this dish, making it a cherished favorite among my loved ones.

Join me in the kitchen, and let’s uncover the secrets to creating your own mouthwatering Turnips Au Gratin. You’ll be amazed at how a few straightforward steps can yield such delightful results. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 15 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
60 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
12 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
34 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Peeler, Saucepan, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet

What Makes This Turnips Au Gratin Special

Comfort Food at Its Best

The first reason I adore Turnips Au Gratin is the undeniable comfort it brings. The rich, creamy sauce combined with the tender layers of turnips creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s the kind of comfort food that melts away the stress of a long day.

A Perfect Side Dish

This dish isn’t just an indulgence; it’s a versatile side that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Whether you’re serving roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a hearty vegetarian main, Turnips Au Gratin complements them all, adding a touch of elegance to your meal.

Seasonal Ingredients

Using fresh, seasonal ingredients is essential to me, and Turnips Au Gratin embraces this philosophy wholeheartedly. Turnips are often abundant in winter, making them the perfect choice for this warming dish. Plus, the addition of fresh thyme elevates the flavor profile, offering a fragrant touch that balances the creaminess.

Simple Yet Impressive

What I love most about Turnips Au Gratin is its simplicity. The recipe requires just a handful of ingredients, yet it turns out to be incredibly impressive. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings. Your guests will be raving about it long after the meal is over!

Endless Customization

This recipe allows for creativity and customization. While the classic version is superb, you can easily add your twist. Consider incorporating different cheeses for varying flavor profiles or even adding some vegetables for extra nutrition. The possibilities are endless!

Emotional Connection

Finally, Turnips Au Gratin holds a special place in my heart because of the memories attached to it. Cooking this dish always brings back fond recollections of family gatherings and laughter shared over the table. It’s more than just food; it’s a celebration of togetherness.

What You’ll Need for Turnips Au Gratin

To create the delicious Turnips Au Gratin, we need a few key ingredients that work together beautifully. The combination of creamy elements and the earthiness of turnips makes this dish a real winner. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture.

2 cups heavy cream: This is the star of the dish, providing a rich and velvety base that binds everything together. The cream adds a luxurious feel that elevates the humble turnip.
3 garlic cloves, smashed: Garlic introduces a delightful aroma and depth of flavor. It complements the cream and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
2 sprigs fresh thyme: This herb adds a fragrant touch, bringing a fresh, herby note that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients, salt is a must in any savory dish.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A pinch of black pepper adds warmth and a subtle kick, complementing the creaminess of the dish.
2 pounds turnips, peeled and sliced thinly with a mandoline: Turnips are the star ingredient, offering a slightly sweet and earthy flavor. Slicing them thinly ensures they cook evenly and absorb the delicious sauce.
1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, adding a nutty and creamy flavor that is simply irresistible.
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a salty, savory note that enhances the overall flavor profile and provides a lovely crust when baked.

The Process for Making Turnips Au Gratin

Creating Turnips Au Gratin is a delightful process that brings the kitchen to life with mouthwatering aromas. With just a few steps, you can transform simple ingredients into a stunning dish that will impress anyone. Let’s get started!

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that the Turnips Au Gratin will bake evenly and develop a lovely golden crust. While the oven heats up, grease an 11×7-inch baking dish with some butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
In a medium saucepan, bring the heavy cream, garlic cloves, thyme, salt, and black pepper to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Once it begins to simmer, remove it from the heat and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time infuses the cream with the wonderful garlic and thyme flavors.
Using a fine mesh strainer, strain the cream mixture to remove the garlic and thyme. Doing this ensures a smooth and creamy base for your dish. Set the infused cream aside for a moment while you prepare the turnips.
Now it’s time to layer the turnips. Start by placing 1/3 of the thinly sliced turnips in the greased baking dish. Make sure to spread them out evenly for consistent cooking.
Next, sprinkle 1/3 of the Gruyere cheese over the first layer of turnips. The cheese will melt beautifully and bind the layers together, creating that creamy texture we all love.
Repeat the layering process, adding another 1/3 of the turnips and then another 1/3 of the cheese. This creates a delightful combination of flavors and textures throughout the dish.
For the final layer, add the remaining turnips followed by the last of the Gruyere cheese. You want each spoonful of Turnips Au Gratin to be bursting with cheesy goodness!
Now pour the strained heavy cream over the layered turnips and cheese. Make sure to cover everything evenly, allowing the cream to soak into the layers. This will create a luscious, creamy sauce.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil, which helps to trap the steam and allows the turnips to cook thoroughly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 to 45 minutes.
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes. This step is crucial to achieve that golden, bubbly crust on top. Keep an eye on it, and once you see a beautiful golden color, it’s ready!

Things Worth Knowing

Use a mandoline: Slicing the turnips thinly with a mandoline ensures even cooking and tenderness.
Resting time matters: Allowing the cream mixture to infuse with the garlic and thyme maximizes flavor.
Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to mix different cheeses according to your taste, like cheddar or fontina.
Check for doneness: The turnips should be fork-tender when the dish is ready. If not, cover and bake a bit longer.

Recipe Variations about Turnips Au Gratin

There are so many ways to make Turnips Au Gratin your own. Here are some tips to consider for your next culinary adventure:

Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze Turnips Au Gratin for up to two months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
Pairing: Serve it alongside roasted meats or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
Herb variations: Consider adding other fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for different flavor profiles.
Vegetable mix-ins: Try adding sliced carrots or parsnips for a colorful twist on the classic recipe.
Serving suggestions: This dish is a showstopper for holiday meals or cozy family dinners.
Make it ahead: You can prepare the dish a day in advance, just cover and refrigerate before baking.

What to Pair With Turnips Au Gratin

When it comes to serving Turnips Au Gratin, there are plenty of delicious options to enhance your meal. Here are some great pairing ideas:

Roasted Chicken: The creamy texture of Turnips Au Gratin pairs perfectly with juicy, roasted chicken, making it a classic combination.
Grilled Fish: A light, flaky fish like cod or tilapia complements the richness of the dish, creating a balanced meal.
Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch, balancing the creaminess of the gratin.
Winter Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots for a hearty winter dinner.
Occasions: Turnips Au Gratin is perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion where comfort food is appreciated.
Wine: Pair with a crisp white wine to cut through the richness, enhancing your dining experience.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for later enjoyment.

FAQ

Turnips are root vegetables that belong to the Brassica family, alongside cabbage and broccoli. They have a slightly sweet and peppery flavor, making them versatile for various dishes. You can roast them, mash them, or use them in soups and stews. In Turnips Au Gratin, they shine as the main ingredient, absorbing the flavors of cream and cheese beautifully.

Yes, you can absolutely prepare Turnips Au Gratin ahead of time! Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or special occasions!

Turnips Au Gratin pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted meats, grilled fish, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. The creamy layers of this dish complement the flavors of savory proteins beautifully. It’s perfect for holiday feasts or cozy family dinners!

Absolutely! While Gruyere and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Cheddar, fontina, or even a blend of cheeses can add unique flavors and textures. The beauty of Turnips Au Gratin lies in its versatility—make it your own!

Conclusion

Turnips Au Gratin is truly a special dish that exemplifies comfort food at its finest. With its creamy layers of turnips and cheesy goodness, it brings warmth and joy to any gathering. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. It’s a wonderful way to create cherished memories around the dinner table!