Gratin of Yams, Apples and Leeks

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups whipping (heavy) cream
• 2 large leeks, sliced (2 cups)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh or 2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 medium yams (about 3/4 pound), peeled and thinly sliced (2 cups)
• 4 medium parsnips, peeled and thinly sliced (2 cups)
• 2 cups grated white Cheddar cheese (8 ounces)
• 1 large cooking apple, thinly sliced (1 1/2 cups)

Instructions

• Step 1Heat oven to 375°. Grease 3-quart casserole.
• Step 2Cook whipping cream, leeks, thyme, salt, pepper and nutmeg in heavy 2-quart saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture begins to simmer. Stir in yams and parsnips. Cover and simmer about 10 minutes or until vegetables are slightly tender.
• Step 3Layer half of the vegetable mixture and half of the cheese in casserole. Top with apple. Repeat layers of vegetables and cheese.
• Step 4Bake uncovered about 45 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.