We’ve always been captivated by the cozy flavors of Scandinavian traditions, and Lanttulaatikko stands out as a Finnish gem. This hearty rutabaga casserole originated in Finland where it’s a beloved holiday staple gracing Christmas tables with its creamy warmth and subtle sweetness.
It’s not just comforting—it’s a simple way to bring authentic Nordic vibes to your kitchen. We’re excited to share how this dish combines everyday ingredients into something truly special that’ll have you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
To bring the authentic flavors of our Lanttulaatikko—a traditional Finnish rutabaga casserole—to life, we start by gathering these key ingredients. We’ll list them in the order they are typically used, with prep notes for clarity and ease.
Main Vegetables
- Rutabagas (about 2 pounds): Peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces; these form the hearty base of our casserole, providing a sweet, earthy flavor that defines Lanttulaatikko.
Dairy and Binders
- Butter (4 tablespoons): Unsalted and softened; we’ll use this first to sauté and add rich, creamy depth.
- Milk (1 cup): Whole milk for creaminess; heat it gently when incorporating to blend smoothly with other elements.
- Eggs (2 large): Lightly beaten; these help bind the mixture for a perfect, cohesive texture.
Dry and Seasoning Components
- Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Plain or panko; we’ll add these later for a subtle crunch on top.
- Brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Packed; this sweetens the dish and enhances the natural caramel notes of the rutabagas.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Fine sea salt; adjust to taste for balanced seasoning.
- Ground nutmeg (½ teaspoon): Freshly grated if possible; it adds a warm, aromatic spice that evokes Scandinavian holiday vibes.
These ingredients combine to create a comforting, aromatic dish that captures the essence of Finnish cuisine. Gather them fresh for the best results in our step-by-step preparation.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients for Lanttulaatikko, we’ll walk you through the preparation, cooking, and baking steps to create this comforting Finnish casserole with its creamy texture and aromatic spices.
Prep
First, we start by preparing the rutabagas and other components to ensure everything is ready for cooking. Begin by peeling and dicing 2 pounds of rutabagas into even 1-inch cubes for uniform cooking— this helps achieve a smooth, velvety mash. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs until fluffy and well-beaten, then set aside. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter and combine it with 1 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg in another bowl to create a rich, flavorful mixture that will infuse the dish with warm, nutty notes.
Cook
Next, we move on to cooking the rutabagas to develop their natural sweetness and soft consistency. Place the diced rutabagas in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil over high heat—aim for about 20-25 minutes until they are fork-tender and release a steamy, earthy aroma. Once done, drain the rutabagas thoroughly, then mash them using a potato masher or fork until smooth and lump-free. Gradually stir in the butter-milk mixture from the prep stage, followed by the whisked eggs, until you form a creamy, cohesive batter that promises a decadently rich and comforting bite.
Bake
Finally, we bake the assembled Lanttulaatikko to achieve its signature golden crust and tender interior. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking. Pour the cooked and mixed batter into the dish, spreading it evenly, then sprinkle an additional 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs on top for a crispy, golden finish. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is lightly browned and the center is set—check by inserting a knife, which should come out clean. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld into a hearty, soul-warming dish.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the joys of our Lanttulaatikko recipe is its flexibility for busy holiday schedules. We love how this traditional Finnish casserole lets you prepare components in advance without sacrificing its comforting aromatic flavors of nutmeg and brown sugar. Follow these steps to make ahead and ensure your dish remains fresh and ready to bake when you need it.
Preparing the Mixture
To get a head start, begin by assembling the rutabaga mixture up to 24 hours before baking. First, peel and dice the rutabagas into even 1-inch cubes as outlined in our preparation section. Boil them until fork-tender, then mash thoroughly. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, milk, breadcrumbs, brown sugar, salt, and ground nutmeg until smooth. Combine the mashed rutabagas with this mixture to form a creamy batter. This step ensures the flavors meld beautifully for an authentic, soul-warming Lanttulaatikko.
Assembling and Storing
Once your batter is ready, transfer it to a greased baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying. Refrigerate the assembled dish for up to 24 hours. This method keeps the textures tender and the spices vibrant, making it ideal for holiday gatherings where time is precious.
Reheating and Baking Tips
When you’re ready to serve, remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then bake as per the original instructions until the top forms a golden crust. If baking from cold, add 5-10 minutes to the total time for a perfectly heated interior.
| Make-Ahead Option | Maximum Duration | Key Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerate assembled dish | Up to 24 hours | Store in fridge; let sit at room temperature before baking. |
| Freeze unbaked casserole | Up to 1 month | Wrap tightly in freezer-safe material; thaw overnight in fridge before baking. |
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Lanttulaatikko recipe as it brings a touch of Finnish warmth to our kitchens. It’s a simple way to embrace holiday traditions and create memorable moments with family.
By trying this dish you’ll discover how easy it is to add authentic flavors to your table. We’re confident it’ll become a favorite in your home too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lanttulaatikko?
Lanttulaatikko is a traditional Finnish rutabaga casserole, cherished as a holiday staple, especially during Christmas. This comforting dish features simple ingredients transformed into a creamy, aromatic side that embodies Scandinavian coziness. It’s easy to make at home and brings authentic Nordic flavors to your table, perfect for family gatherings.
What are the key ingredients for Lanttulaatikko?
The main ingredients include rutabagas, butter, milk, eggs, breadcrumbs, brown sugar, salt, and ground nutmeg. These everyday items create a rich, flavorful casserole. Use fresh rutabagas for the best taste, and measure them carefully to balance sweetness and spice.
How do you prepare Lanttulaatikko?
Start by peeling and dicing rutabagas, then boil until tender. Mash them and mix with butter, milk, eggs, breadcrumbs, brown sugar, salt, and nutmeg to form a creamy batter. Pour into a greased dish and bake until golden and bubbly, about 45-60 minutes. This yields a hearty, soul-warming dish ready for serving.
Can Lanttulaatikko be made ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the rutabaga mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in a covered, greased dish. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked casserole for up to a month. Let it thaw and reach room temperature before baking for even results, making it ideal for busy holidays.
Is Lanttulaatikko suitable for holiday meals?
Absolutely, it’s a beloved Finnish Christmas tradition, offering warm, comforting flavors that enhance festive feasts. Its simple preparation and make-ahead options make it perfect for holiday gatherings, adding an authentic Nordic touch to your table. Serve it alongside other dishes for a cozy, memorable meal.