Classic Canadian Turnip Bake

Name: Classic Canadian Turnip Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 3 medium turnips (peeled and thinly sliced); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup milk (2% or whole); 2 tablespoons butter (melted); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko); 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (grated); 1 tablespoon butter (melted)

65 min 6 servings Medium

All Recipes

A comforting turnip bake with a creamy texture and crispy topping, perfect for any occasion.

Prep

20 min

Cook

45 min

Total

65 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Turnip bake is a beloved dish in Canadian cuisine, offering a hearty, warming comfort food, especially during the cooler months. This recipe balances the earthy flavour of turnips with a rich, creamy sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping, making it a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Our version of turnip bake is designed to be both easy to prepare and delicious, with a focus on simplicity and taste. By combining traditional techniques with a few modern twists, this dish is ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking to add a touch of Canadian flair to their menu.

Instructions

Preheat oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Prepare turnips

Peel and thinly slice the turnips, aiming for uniform slices about 3 mm thick.

Pro tip: Use a mandoline for quicker and more even slicing.

Make the sauce

In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, milk, melted butter, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Heat gently over medium heat until just warm.

Layer the turnips

In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, arrange a layer of turnip slices. Pour over some of the cream mixture. Repeat layers, finishing with the cream mixture.

Pro tip: Ensure all turnips are covered in the sauce.

Prepare the topping

In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, grated cheddar, and melted butter until crumbly.

Bake

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the turnips. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the turnips are tender and the top is golden brown.

Pro tip: For a crispier top, broil for the last 2 minutes.

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Tips & Tricks

Choose firm, smooth-skinned turnips for the best flavour.
Use a mandoline for even slicing and quicker prep.
For a golden crust, broil the topping for the last 2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a turnip bake?

A turnip bake is a casserole dish made with sliced turnips layered with a creamy sauce and topped with breadcrumbs and cheese.

How do you make a turnip bake?

It's made by layering sliced turnips with a cream sauce, topping with breadcrumbs and cheese, and baking until tender and golden.

How many calories are in a turnip bake?

A serving of this turnip bake contains approximately 250 calories.

Can turnip bake be made ahead?

Yes, you can assemble the bake a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

What can I serve with turnip bake?

Turnip bake pairs well with roasted meats such as chicken or turkey, making it a great side dish for holiday meals.

How long can I store leftover turnip bake?

Leftover turnip bake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Do turnips need to be peeled for baking?

Yes, it's best to peel turnips before baking to remove the tough outer skin.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this classic turnip bake alongside roasted meats or poultry for a complete and satisfying meal. It pairs particularly well with roast chicken or turkey, making it an excellent choice for holiday gatherings. Turnip bake can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes before serving. Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.