Turnips Au Gratin
Creamy turnips topped with melted cheddar and crispy bread crumbs, baked to golden perfection. A comforting, cheesy side dish ideal for family dinners and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place turnips in boiling water.
- Add salt and sugar; cover and cook for 12 minutes.
- Drain the turnips.
- In a saucepan, melt butter or margarine.
- Blend in flour, salt, and pepper; remove from heat.
- Gradually blend in milk and return to heat, cooking until thickened.
- Add shredded Cheddar cheese to the sauce.
- Layer turnips and cheese sauce alternately in a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with bread crumbs on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic powder or nutmeg to the cheese sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half of the cheese with a low-fat alternative or use a dairy-free milk. Ensure the turnips are diced uniformly for even cooking. If you don't have Cheddar cheese, Gruyère or mozzarella can also work well in this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Turnips Au Gratin pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It can also serve as a delicious side dish alongside roasted meats or vegetarian recipes like Baked Squash And Cranberries. For added crunch, serve with a side of crusty bread or a light vinaigrette to complement the creamy texture.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Turnips Au Gratin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, ensuring they are heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turnips Au Gratin contains roughly 1101 calories, with 8g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 93g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (98% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1826mg per serving (79% 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 types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute Cheddar cheese with other cheeses like Gruyère, fontina, or even a sharp provolone. Each cheese will impart its unique flavor, so choose one that complements the dish as per your taste preference.
How do I know when the turnips are cooked properly?
The turnips should be fork-tender after boiling for 12 minutes, meaning they should break apart easily when pierced with a fork. Avoid overcooking to maintain their texture, as they will continue to cook slightly when baked with the cheese sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed, adjusting the cooking time if the dish is cold from the fridge.
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).