Turnips Au Gratin Casserole
Turnips Au Gratin Casserole offers a creamy, cheesy side with tender turnips, perfect for comforting family dinners or holiday gatherings. The dish features a rich cheddar topping and a tender, savory turnip base, making it a delightful addition to any meal that values wholesome, flavorful vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring 1 inch of water to a boil.
- Add turnips, sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Cover and cook for 12 minutes or until tender.
- Drain the turnips and set aside.
- In the same or a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt, white pepper, and 1/4 cup of grated sharp Cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.
- Combine the cooked turnips with the cheese sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
- Mix dry bread crumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
- Sprinkle with remaining cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or substituting some of the milk with sour cream. If you prefer a richer flavor, try using Gruyère cheese instead of Cheddar. Additionally, ensure the turnips are fully tender before combining them with the cheese sauce to achieve the best consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Turnips Au Gratin Casserole makes a delightful side dish for roast meats or poultry. It pairs beautifully with Molded Blueberry Salad for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving it alongside a simple green salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. It's perfect for family gatherings or holiday dinners.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, covering with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turnips Au Gratin Casserole contains roughly 490 calories, with 9g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (67% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1785mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute or combine turnips with other root vegetables like parsnips or potatoes for a different flavor and texture. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it does not include meat. However, always check the cheese to ensure it is rennet-free if strict vegetarianism is a concern.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you are ready to cook it to ensure it's heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).