There’s something about scalloped sweet potatoes that just beckons you to the kitchen. The moment you slice through those vibrant orange layers, you can almost hear them singing a sweet symphony of buttery goodness. Imagine the aroma wafting through your home—the rich scent of cream mingling with hints of garlic and thyme. It’s like a warm hug from your grandmother, reminding you that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated to be utterly delightful. For more inspiration, check out this creamy cheesy potato soup recipe.
Remember that one family gathering where everyone brought their “best dish”? Well, I made scalloped sweet potatoes, and let me tell you, it was a culinary showdown! As the creamy layers melted in your mouth, even Aunt Mabel, who usually critiques everything, had no choice but to ask for seconds. perfect side dish for scalloped sweet potatoes If you’ve ever wished for a dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or holiday feasts, this is it!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe for scalloped sweet potatoes is easy enough for weeknight dinners and fancy enough for celebrations
- The sweet and savory flavors create an irresistible combination
- With its stunning presentation, it will impress guests at any occasion
- Plus, it’s versatile—serve it as a side or make it a meal on its own!
I still remember my friends fighting over the last bite at our potluck dinner—it was that good!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm and smooth sweet potatoes; they should feel heavy for their size and have no blemishes.
Heavy Cream: Full-fat cream adds richness; avoid low-fat versions for the best texture.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves really elevate the flavor profile; use minced garlic for a more intense taste.
Thyme: Fresh thyme works best here; it adds an aromatic touch that complements the sweetness.
Cheese (Gruyère or Cheddar): Shredded cheese brings creaminess and depth; gruyère adds nutty notes while cheddar gives sharpness. For more inspiration, check out this butternut squash mac and cheese recipe.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings enhance all flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This sets the stage for perfectly baked scalloped sweet potatoes. pair your scalloped sweet potatoes Don’t skip this step; nobody likes undercooked layers!
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This ensures nothing sticks and gives a lovely golden finish.
Slice the Sweet Potatoes: Thinly slice your sweet potatoes into even rounds—about 1/8 inch thick works wonders. Use a mandoline if you have one; it guarantees uniformity!
Create the Cream Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme until well combined. The aroma will make your taste buds dance in anticipation.
Layer It Up!: Start layering half of the sliced sweet potatoes in the baking dish. Pour half of the cream mixture over them and sprinkle with cheese—repeat until all ingredients are used up.
Bake to Perfection: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top—your kitchen will smell heavenly by now!
Now you’re ready to serve this delightful dish! Enjoy each cheesy layer melting in your mouth while savoring every moment with family and friends. homemade bread to serve alongside Scalloped sweet potatoes can easily become a beloved staple at your table.
Cooking is not just about feeding the body; it’s about creating lasting memories around shared meals. healthy alternative for a meal So grab those sweet potatoes and get started on this delicious journey today!
You Must Know
- Scalloped sweet potatoes are a creamy, dreamy side dish perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners
- Their vibrant color and comforting aroma bring warmth to any table
- Plus, they pair wonderfully with meats or can shine on their own as a vegetarian delight
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by slicing your sweet potatoes thinly for uniform cooking. Layer them with cream and seasonings in a baking dish. Bake until golden and bubbly while keeping an eye on the time to avoid overcooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different cheeses, such as Gruyère or cheddar, for added flavor. You could also sprinkle in some herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist that elevates the dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, allowing the top to crisp slightly again for that delightful texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly creamy scalloped sweet potatoes, ensure your slices are even and thin
- Using starchy sweet potatoes helps achieve a luscious texture without excess moisture
- Don’t skip on the cheese; it adds depth and flavor that makes this dish irresistible!
Cooking scalloped sweet potatoes always reminds me of family gatherings when my grandmother would serve them every Thanksgiving. Her secret? A sprinkle of nutmeg that made everyone go back for seconds!
FAQ
Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, but adjust cooking time since they cook differently than sweet potatoes.
How can I make scalloped sweet potatoes vegan?
Replace cream with coconut milk and use vegan cheese alternatives for a plant-based option.
What can I serve with scalloped sweet potatoes?
They pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled meats, or even a hearty salad for balance.
Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Scalloped sweet potatoes are a comforting and elegant side dish that will elevate any meal. With creamy layers infused with garlic and thyme, each bite is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. This dish not only impresses guests but also warms the heart, making it perfect for holidays or cozy dinners at home.
Ingredients
- 3 large sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Thinly slice sweet potatoes into even rounds, about 1/8 inch thick.
- In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Layer half of the sweet potato slices in the baking dish. Pour half of the cream mixture over them and sprinkle with half of the cheese. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For added flavor, experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or add herbs such as rosemary. Ensure even slicing for consistent cooking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat in the oven for best results.