Beets & Potatoes Au Gratin

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups half-and-half

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1 pinch nutmeg

3 medium potatoes

3 medium red beets

1-1/2 cups grated mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg INSTRUCTIONS:

In a small saucepan, bring the half-and-half to a simmer. Add the garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and nutmeg, then set the pan aside to cool. Generously butter a 1-½-quart round casserole and preheat the oven to 375°F.

Wash and peel the potatoes and beets. Slice them into ⅛-inch-thick rounds. Arrange the potatoes in one layer, in the bottom of the casserole. Combine the cheeses and sprinkle ⅓ cup over the potatoes.

Add a layer of beets, overlapping as needed, and sprinkle with another 1⁄3 cup of cheese. Alternate the layers of potatoes and beets, with 1⁄3 cup of cheese between each, until they reach the rim of the casserole.

Press the layers down to compact them and top with the remaining cheese. When the half-and-half mixture has reached room temperature, add the egg, whisking vigorously, and pour the mixture over the potatoes and beets.

Cover the casserole loosely with foil and set it on a large baking sheet.

Bake for 1 hour, or until the vegetables feel tender when pierced. Remove the foil and turn the oven to broil. Broil for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese is lightly browned.

Remove from the oven and let stand for 15 to 20 minutes. Cut into wedges and serve.

Credit to: Beets and Potatoes Au Gratin Recipe | Old Farmer's Almanac