Cheesy Carrot Gratin
This Cheesy Carrot Gratin is a delightful vegetable side dish that combines tender carrots with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, topped with a crunchy crouton crust. It's perfect for holiday dinners or any special occasion, offering a flavorful and comforting way to enjoy carrots.
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
seasoned croutons
1/2 cup (crushed)
butter
2 tablespoons (unsalted)
onion
1/3 cup (chopped)
all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons (sifted)
salt
1 teaspoon ( )
ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon (freshly ground)
milk
1 1/2 cups (whole)
Velveeta cheese
1 cup (grated)
carrots
4 cups (cooked, sliced into rounds)
parsley flakes
1 teaspoon (dried)
Instructions
1
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
2. In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until the onions are translucent and tender, about 5 minutes.
3
3. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the flour, salt, and pepper, blending well to form a roux.
4
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps, until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce, approximately 5 minutes.
5
5. Add the grated Velveeta cheese, stirring until it has melted completely into the creamy sauce.
6
6. Gently fold in the cooked carrot slices and parsley flakes, ensuring the carrots are evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
7
7. Transfer the carrot mixture into a shallow baking dish. Sprinkle the crushed seasoned croutons evenly over the top.
8
8. Bake the gratin uncovered in the preheated oven until the top is golden brown and the dish is heated through, about 20 minutes.
9
9. Remove from oven. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Carrot Gratin?
Cheesy Carrot Gratin is a comforting vegetable side dish featuring tender carrots enveloped in a rich Velveeta cheese sauce and topped with crunchy, seasoned crouton crumbs.
How many servings does this carrot gratin recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve approximately 8 people.
What is the recommended oven temperature for baking the gratin?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
What type of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of grated Velveeta cheese to ensure a smooth and creamy sauce.
How long does it take to bake the dish?
The gratin takes about 20 minutes to bake in the oven until the top is golden brown.
How do I prepare the carrots for this recipe?
The carrots should be cooked and sliced into rounds before being folded into the cheese sauce.
What serves as the topping for the Cheesy Carrot Gratin?
The topping consists of 1/2 cup of crushed seasoned croutons.
Can I use fresh parsley instead of dried parsley flakes?
Yes, you can substitute fresh parsley; use about 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh parsley for every 1 teaspoon of dried flakes.
How is the base sauce made?
The sauce starts with a roux made of butter, sautéed onions, flour, salt, and pepper, followed by the gradual addition of milk.
What kind of milk works best for the sauce?
Whole milk is recommended to achieve the richest and creamiest texture for the gratin sauce.
How do I crush the croutons for the topping?
You can place the croutons in a sealed plastic bag and use a rolling pin or a heavy pan to crush them into crumbs.
Is this dish suitable for holiday meals?
Absolutely, its rich flavor and comforting profile make it an excellent side dish for holiday dinners or special occasions.
How long should I sauté the onions?
Sauté the chopped onions for about 5 minutes or until they are translucent and tender.
Can I use unsalted butter?
Yes, the recipe specifies 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
What is the preparation for the carrots before slicing?
Carrots should be peeled and boiled or steamed until tender before being sliced into rounds.
How do I prevent lumps from forming in the sauce?
Gradually whisk in the milk while stirring constantly to ensure the roux and milk blend into a smooth mixture.
Should the baking dish be covered or uncovered?
The gratin should be baked uncovered to allow the crouton topping to become crunchy and golden.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the carrot and sauce mixture in advance and add the crouton topping just before baking.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
What is the best way to reheat this gratin?
Reheat in an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through to maintain the texture of the crouton topping.
Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots?
Yes, baby carrots can be used; just ensure they are cooked tender and sliced if they are large.
Is there a substitute for Velveeta cheese?
You can use a sharp cheddar or American cheese, though you may need to add a splash more milk as Velveeta has a higher moisture content.
What category of food does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is categorized as a Vegetable side dish.
How much salt and pepper are needed?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/8 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
Can I add garlic to this recipe?
Yes, you can add minced garlic when sautéing the onions for extra flavor.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, with only 10 ingredients and straightforward instructions, it is labeled as an easy recipe.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If the sauce is too thick, whisk in a tablespoon of milk at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Why let the dish sit after baking?
Letting it sit for a few minutes allows the sauce to set slightly and the flavors to fully meld.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
Yes, carrots are a natural source of dietary fiber, making this a nutritious side dish.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, the ingredients can easily be doubled. Use a larger 9x13 inch baking dish if doubling the portions.