Better Rutabagas with Cheese
Transform your side dish game with "Better Rutabagas with Cheese," a creamy, cheesy baked delight that brings out the best in this underappreciated root vegetable. Tender chunks of rutabaga are smothered in a luscious sauce made with sharp cheddar and Parmesan, seasoned with garlic powder and paprika for a subtle kick. A crispy breadcrumb topping (optional but highly recommended) adds texture and a golden finish, making this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious. Perfect for cozy holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners, this rutabaga gratin is both hearty and comforting. With simple prep and rich flavors, it’s an easy way to elevate a vegetable side into the spotlight!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized (about 2 pounds total) rutabagas
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups whole milk
- 1.25 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese, grated
- 0.5 teaspoons garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoons (adjust to taste) salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.5 cups breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter or lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking dish and set it aside.
Peel the rutabagas and cut them into 1-inch cubes. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rutabaga cubes for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain well and set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes, or until it starts to thicken slightly.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the drained rutabaga cubes to the saucepan and gently toss to coat evenly in the cheese sauce.
Transfer the rutabaga mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
If using breadcrumbs, mix them with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle them over the top of the dish for a crispy topping.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbling and golden on top.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
333 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 18.4 g | 24% | |
| Saturated Fat | 10.6 g | 53% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 48 mg | 16% | |
| Sodium | 707 mg | 31% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 31.5 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.1 g | 22% | |
| Total Sugars | 15.1 g | ||
| Protein | 14.3 g | 29% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.0 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 410 mg | 32% | |
| Iron | 1.2 mg | 7% | |
| Potassium | 891 mg | 19% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
