8 Amazing Vegetable Gratin Recipes

A mandoline will slice the potatoes quickly and to the same thickness, though a sharp knife will also work. Instead of being buried in cream, the potatoes and leeks are simmered in and drizzled with milk so the potatoes get wonderfully crisp and tender and the cheeses form a melty, golden crust. The result is a rich, rustic potato side with contrasting flavors and texture. Reheat leftovers in the oven until crisped and warmed through, and then serve with eggs and a side of fruit for breakfast.

You don't need dairy to make a great gratin. This curried cauliflower dish is made with coconut milk, which keeps the dish creamy without upping the fat content. The gratin can work as an easy side to your favorite protein or over cooked brown rice for a meatless main dish.

Evaporated milk unifies and enriches the layers of this dish. Use a loaf pan for maximum height, and bake gratin up to 2 days ahead for an easy side dish meal-prep. Rewarm, covered, in a 350° oven for 30 minutes. Tell the kids it's like mac and cheese and they'll gobble it up. 

This dish is hearty and cheesy without being heavy. Be sure to use fat asparagus spears; thinner ones will overcook. Feel free to use 4 oblong, shallow gratin dishes for individual portions.

The mild sweetness of butternut squash pairs particularly well with Mexican flavors of poblano chile and cumin. Goat cheese brightens and enriches the flavor, and toasty almonds offer a welcome textural contrast. Try to get a squash with a long neck, as slices from that section are easiest to work with. 

Clear a place of honor on your table for this creamy and exceptionally comforting casserole.

Pancetta is Italian cured pork, similar to cured bacon, which you can substitute, if necessary. Smoked bacon will also work, if you prefer the flavor.

These are the ultimate roasted potatoes. The top and edges get crispy, and the bottom layers turn amazingly rich and buttery. Be sure to buy same-sized potatoes so the slices are uniform.