Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of creamy, cheesy, and slightly sweet flavors in a dish. For me, scalloped sweet potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, especially during the colder months. They’re a delightful twist on traditional scalloped potatoes, bringing a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the table. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish for a holiday feast or as a cozy weeknight treat, this recipe is sure to impress.

I’ve always loved experimenting with sweet potatoes because they’re not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This recipe is a perfect balance of indulgence and wholesomeness. The layers of thinly sliced sweet potatoes, creamy sauce, and melted cheese create a dish that’s both visually stunning and incredibly satisfying. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

What You Need To Make This Recipe

Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes are the star of this dish, providing a natural sweetness and vibrant orange color. They’re also rich in vitamins A and C, making this dish as nutritious as it is delicious. Look for firm, smooth sweet potatoes without any soft spots.

Heavy cream: Heavy cream adds richness and a velvety texture to the sauce. It helps bind the layers together and creates a luscious, indulgent dish. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as creamy.

Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a subtle savory note that balances the sweetness of the potatoes. It infuses the cream sauce with a warm, aromatic flavor that elevates the entire dish.

Cheese: I recommend using a combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese. The cheddar adds a gooey, melty texture, while the Parmesan brings a nutty, salty flavor that complements the sweet potatoes perfectly.

Butter: Butter is used to grease the baking dish and add a touch of richness to the sauce. It also helps the potatoes brown slightly on the edges, adding a lovely caramelized flavor.

Seasonings: A simple blend of salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg enhances the flavors of the dish. Nutmeg, in particular, pairs beautifully with sweet potatoes and adds a warm, slightly spicy note.

Ingredients List

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

How to Make Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Use the softened butter to generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will prevent the potatoes from sticking and help them develop a golden crust.

Step 2: Layer the Sweet Potatoes

Arrange a layer of thinly sliced sweet potatoes in the bottom of the prepared dish. Overlapping the slices slightly will create a beautiful, even layer. Repeat until all the sweet potatoes are used, ensuring the top layer is neat and even.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Warm the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s just beginning to simmer. Be careful not to let it boil.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Pour the warm cream sauce evenly over the layered sweet potatoes. Make sure the sauce seeps into all the layers. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 6: Let It Rest

Allow the scalloped sweet potatoes to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Tips for Making This Recipe

Slice the Sweet Potatoes Thinly: Use a sharp knife or mandoline slicer to ensure even, thin slices. This helps the potatoes cook evenly and absorb the cream sauce better.
Don’t Skip the Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg adds a warm, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with sweet potatoes.
Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to rest before serving ensures the sauce thickens and the layers set.
Customize the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyère or Gouda, for a unique flavor profile.
Make It Ahead: You can assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes, but keep in mind the flavor and texture will be different. Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and vibrant color that regular potatoes don’t have.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can try using coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives. However, the flavor and texture will vary.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze scalloped sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze the dish before baking. Assemble it, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What can I serve with this dish?
Scalloped sweet potatoes pair well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy making and savoring this delicious, comforting dish!