Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting, show-stopping side dish that’s both creamy and packed with flavor, this Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. With tender layers of thinly sliced sweet potatoes nestled in a luscious cheese and cream sauce, infused with aromatic thyme and a hint of nutmeg, it brings the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and cheesy goodness to your table. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish will quickly become a beloved favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating a rich flavor and smooth texture. From the naturally sweet and vibrant sweet potatoes to the sharp punch of cheddar and the nutty undertones of Parmesan, every component contributes to this dish’s irresistible appeal.
- Sweet potatoes: Four medium-sized and peeled sweet potatoes provide the hearty base and vibrant color.
- Onion: One medium onion thinly sliced adds delicate sweetness and depth.
- Heavy cream: Two cups create a lovely, silky sauce that binds everything.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: One cup shredded sharp cheddar delivers tanginess and meltiness.
- Parmesan cheese: One cup freshly grated Parmesan adds a savory, nutty layer.
- Unsalted butter: Two tablespoons to sauté garlic and add richness.
- Garlic: Two cloves finely minced for gentle aromatic warmth.
- Fresh thyme leaves: One teaspoon, or half a teaspoon dried thyme, for earthy herbal notes.
- Salt: One teaspoon to enhance all the flavors.
- Black pepper: Half a teaspoon freshly ground for subtle spice.
- Nutmeg (optional): Half a teaspoon to add warmth and complexity.
- Olive oil: One tablespoon for greasing the baking dish.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped, as garnish to brighten the final presentation.
How to Make Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s just right when the dish is ready to bake. Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into thin, uniform rounds about a 1/8 inch thick—using a mandoline slicer here is a game changer for even layering. Thinly slicing the onion ensures it will soften and meld perfectly with the potatoes.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and gently sauté the minced garlic just until fragrant—don’t let it brown because you want a mellow garlic flavor. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in thyme, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if you’re using it. Let the mixture warm through without boiling, then remove from the heat and stir in half of each cheese (cheddar and Parmesan) until melted and smooth. This is the luxurious sauce that will make your scalloped sweet potatoes irresistibly creamy.
Step 3: Construct the Layers
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and add a bit of extra flavor. Start layering by placing a single layer of sweet potato slices on the bottom, followed by a layer of onions. Then pour a portion of the creamy cheese sauce over it. Repeat these layers until all the potatoes, onions, and sauce are used up, making sure to finish with the cream on top. This layering method guarantees every bite has a perfect balance of potatoes, onions, and cheesy sauce.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and Parmesan over the top layer to form a golden, cheesy crust. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes to let everything soften and cook evenly. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until you see that gorgeous golden brown bubbling topping. This final step adds a beautiful texture contrast.
Step 5: Let It Rest and Garnish
Once you take it out of the oven, allow the dish to rest for 10-15 minutes so it sets and is easier to cut. Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to add a lively splash of color and fresh flavor. Cut your scalloped sweet potatoes into squares or wedges and serve warm.
How to Serve Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A simple handful of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a lovely green pop against the golden layers but also brings a bright, herbal lift that balances the richness. For extra flair, a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of crispy fried shallots can add texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or pork, making it a fabulous addition to holiday spreads. For a vegetarian meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad or sautéed seasonal vegetables to balance the creamy heaviness with fresh, crunchy bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive presentation, try serving the scalloped sweet potatoes in individual ramekins for a personal touch. You can also layer the dish in a clear glass baking dish or trifle bowl so the beautiful layers are visible, adding a wow factor that’s perfect for dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover scalloped sweet potatoes store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually mellow and deepen, making the next day’s meal just as delightful.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked dish after it has completely cooled, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Frozen scalloped sweet potatoes will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil to avoid drying out, for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. If you prefer, you can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method maintains the dish’s creamy texture and delicate top crust better.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! While this recipe shines with sweet potatoes for their natural sweetness and color, you can substitute regular Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for a more traditional scalloped potato dish. Keep in mind the flavor and sweetness will be different.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe contains no flour or gluten-containing ingredients, making it naturally gluten-free and perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this dish vegan?
You can adapt the recipe by substituting the heavy cream with a plant-based cream and using vegan cheese alternatives. However, the traditional recipe’s creamy texture and flavors will be altered.
How thin should I slice the sweet potatoes?
About 1/8 inch thick is ideal for even cooking and tender layers. Using a mandoline slicer ensures uniform slices, so everything cooks evenly and looks beautiful.
What if I don’t have fresh thyme?
Dried thyme works well too; just use half the amount called for fresh thyme. It still provides that lovely herbal note that complements the richness of the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe is truly a gem that brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of elegance to any meal. Its creamy layers, cheesy topping, and balanced flavors invite everyone to the table for seconds. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a treasured part of your recipe collection—you’re going to love every bite!
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Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Scalloped Sweet Potatoes recipe is a creamy, cheesy casserole perfect for a comforting side dish or a vegetarian main. Layers of thinly sliced sweet potatoes and onions are baked in a flavorful sauce made from heavy cream, garlic, thyme, and sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Finished with a golden bubbly top and garnished with fresh parsley, this easy-to-make dish is sure to impress at your next meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Dairy
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Seasonings & Oils
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the proper temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare sweet potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the sweet potatoes about 1/8 inch thick, preferably using a mandoline slicer to ensure uniform slices that cook evenly.
- Slice onion: Thinly slice the medium onion to add a mellow sweetness and texture to the layers.
- Sauté garlic: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned to bring out its flavor.
- Make cream sauce: Pour in heavy cream and stir in thyme, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using. Heat the mixture gently without boiling to blend the flavors.
- Add cheeses to sauce: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in half of the shredded sharp cheddar and half of the grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. Set aside the creamy sauce.
- Assemble casserole: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil. Begin layering by placing a single layer of sweet potato slices followed by a layer of onions, then pour a portion of the cream sauce over them. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, ending with the cream sauce on top.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the final cream layer to create a golden, cheesy crust.
- Cover and bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to cook through and soften.
- Uncover and finish baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, indicating a perfectly cooked casserole.
- Rest the dish: Let the scalloped sweet potatoes sit for 10-15 minutes after removing from the oven; this helps the layers set for easier serving.
- Serve: Cut the casserole into squares or wedges and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- Using a mandoline slicer ensures uniform thickness for even cooking.
- The nutmeg is optional but adds a warm, complementary flavor to the creamy sauce.
- Letting the dish rest before serving prevents it from falling apart when cut.
- You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream for a lighter version, but the texture will be less rich.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated; bake when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
