Oven-Baked Vegetable Gratin

Name: Oven-Baked Vegetable Gratin
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 6 portions
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 large potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced); 2 zucchini (thinly sliced); 2 carrots (peeled and thinly sliced); 1 bell pepper (sliced); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup milk; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon thyme (dried); 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese; to taste salt and pepper

75 min 6 portions Medium

All Recipes

Savoury layers of vegetables baked to perfection with a crispy, cheesy topping.

Prep

30 min

Cook

45 min

Total

75 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

A gratin de légumes is a classic French dish that beautifully showcases the natural flavours of fresh vegetables. It combines layers of thinly sliced vegetables with a creamy sauce, baked under a blanket of cheese that turns golden and crisp in the oven. This dish is both versatile and comforting, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Whether you are looking for a hearty side dish or a light vegetarian main, this vegetable gratin will not disappoint.

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Pro tip: A properly preheated oven ensures even cooking.

Prepare the baking dish

Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Layer the vegetables

Arrange half of the potato slices in a single layer on the bottom of the dish. Follow with layers of zucchini, carrots, and bell pepper. Repeat the layering with the remaining vegetables.

Pro tip: Overlap the slices slightly for even coverage.

Prepare the sauce

In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium heat until just beginning to simmer, then remove from heat.

Pro tip: Avoid boiling the mixture to prevent curdling.

Pour the sauce

Evenly pour the cream mixture over the layered vegetables, ensuring even distribution.

Pro tip: Gently shake the dish to help the sauce settle between the layers.

Add the cheese

Sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese over the top of the vegetables.

Pro tip: For extra flavour, mix in some Parmesan cheese.

Bake the gratin

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork.

Pro tip: Let the gratin cool for 5 minutes before serving.

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Tips & Tricks

Use a mandoline slicer for even vegetable slices.
For a crispier top, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.
Choose vegetables of similar sizes for even cooking.
Test vegetable doneness with a fork before removing from oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a vegetable gratin?

A vegetable gratin is a dish of thinly sliced vegetables layered in a baking dish, topped with a creamy sauce and cheese, then baked until golden.

How do you make vegetable gratin in the oven?

Layer sliced vegetables in a baking dish, pour over a creamy sauce, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden and tender.

Can I make a gratin without cheese?

Yes, you can make a gratin without cheese by using breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping instead.

What vegetables can be used in a gratin?

Common vegetables include potatoes, zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers, but you can use any firm vegetables you like.

How long does it take to bake a vegetable gratin?

A vegetable gratin takes about 40-45 minutes to bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the vegetable gratin warm, straight from the oven, as a delightful side dish to roasted meats or as a vegetarian main course. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal. This gratin can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to two days before baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and reheat in the oven to maintain its delightful texture.