“`html

Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food that combines tender, thinly sliced sweet potatoes with a luscious, creamy cheese sauce bursting with warm spices and fresh herbs. This dish transforms humble ingredients into an irresistible casserole that’s perfect for gatherings, holiday feasts, or a cozy weeknight dinner. The inviting aroma alone will have everyone rushing to the table, eager to dive into the rich layers of cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Whether you’re a sweet potato fan or a curious first-timer, these Scalloped Sweet Potatoes might just become your new go-to side dish that celebrates flavor and coziness in every bite.

Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Scalloped Sweet Potatoes lies in its simplicity, but each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting its unforgettable taste and texture. From the natural sweetness of the potatoes to the medley of spices and rich cheese varieties, these components come together to create a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and elegant.

Sweet potatoes: Peeled and very thinly sliced to ensure tender layers and even cooking.
Unsalted butter: Provides a creamy base and sautéing medium for garlic to infuse flavor.
Garlic: Minced for a subtle aromatic kick that complements the sweetness.
All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the cheese sauce and achieve that perfect velvety texture.
Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, savory depth that balances the dish.
Whole milk: Adds creamy moisture for a smooth sauce consistency.
Heavy whipping cream: Enriches the sauce, making it indulgently rich and silky.
Sea salt: Enhances and highlights all the flavors beautifully.
Ground black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
Cinnamon: Brings warm sweetness that pairs perfectly with sweet potatoes.
Ground ginger: A subtle spice that lifts the flavor profile.
Nutmeg: Offers a cozy, slightly nutty undertone.
Fresh rosemary: Finely chopped for an earthy herbaceous note throughout the dish.
Cheddar cheese: Freshly grated, it melts beautifully adding sharp creaminess.
Mozzarella cheese: Provides gooey stretch and mild flavor, balancing the stronger cheeses.

How to Make Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature is key for getting the edges of your scalloped sweet potatoes nice and golden while gently cooking the inner layers to tender perfection. It sets the stage for that delightful contrast in textures we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Peel your sweet potatoes and slice them into very thin rounds. Using a mandoline slicer will make this task much quicker and ensure even thickness, which is crucial for uniform cooking. Thin slices allow the creamy cheese sauce to seep between layers, making every bite rich and flavorful.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Roux

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and sauté the minced garlic until its aroma fills your kitchen. This simple step releases the garlic’s sweet, pungent essence. Whisk in the flour next, cooking briefly until combined to create a roux, which will thicken the luscious cheese sauce.

Step 4: Build the Cheese Sauce

Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese, whole milk, heavy cream, sea salt, black pepper, cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, and fresh rosemary. Bring the mixture gently to a soft boil while stirring frequently—the sauce will thicken and all those warm spices will meld beautifully, giving the dish its signature comforting depth.

Step 5: Add the Cheddar and Mozzarella

Once the sauce has cooled slightly, fold in the freshly grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Incorporating them after cooling prevents the cheeses from separating and ensures your sauce stays silky and smooth, packed with that irresistible cheesy stretch and sharpness.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Arrange the sweet potato slices neatly in a casserole dish, either lined up or in concentric circles. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes, making sure every slice is generously coated. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 to 35 minutes—this steams the potatoes until tender.

Step 7: Finish Baking Uncovered

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes. This final step browns the top layer of cheese, adding a mouthwatering golden crust that contrasts delightfully with the creamy layers beneath.

Step 8: Serve Warm with Garnish

When out of the oven, garnish your Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with a sprinkle of fresh rosemary. The herbal brightness not only lifts the dish visually but introduces a fresh note that complements the richness beautifully.

How to Serve Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme add a lovely aromatic flourish and subtle color contrast to the rich dish. For an extra touch, a light sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of browned butter can elevate the final presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

Scalloped Sweet Potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or pork, helping balance savory proteins with their sweet and creamy character. A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables add refreshing crunch and lighten the meal for an all-around satisfying dining experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking individual portions in ramekins for personal servings that look simply elegant. Alternatively, experiment by layering the sweet potatoes with cooked caramelized onions or crumbled bacon for added texture and flavor surprises that make this classic even more memorable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your Scalloped Sweet Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 4 days, making them a perfect make-ahead side that tastes fantastic reheated.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully too. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the creamy texture and prevent separation.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, covered with foil to retain moisture, until warmed through. Avoid microwaving when possible, as the texture of the cheese sauce can become grainy. A slow reheating preserves that luscious, creamy experience you love.

FAQs

Can I use regular white potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Absolutely! While this recipe shines with sweet potatoes thanks to their natural sweetness and unique flavors, you can substitute white potatoes. Keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly, and the flavor will be less sweet but still delicious.

Is there a dairy-free version of Scalloped Sweet Potatoes?

Yes, you can adapt this dish using plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Coconut milk or oat milk work well for creaminess, and nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan’s umami kick. Just be mindful of the meltability of your cheese substitutes.

What’s the best way to slice the sweet potatoes thinly?

A mandoline slicer is your best friend here—it helps achieve uniformly thin slices quickly and safely. If you don’t have one, use a sharp knife and take your time to get as even as possible for the best texture.

Can this dish be made vegan?

By replacing butter with plant-based margarine, using non-dairy milk and cream alternatives, and swapping cheeses for vegan varieties, you can make a delicious vegan version that still captures the spirit of Scalloped Sweet Potatoes. Experiment with flavors and textures to find your favorite combo!

How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the seasoning?

This recipe features warm, gentle spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg—not heat. If you prefer something spicier or more savory, feel free to tweak the seasoning by adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to suit your palate perfectly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a dish like Scalloped Sweet Potatoes—it’s cozy, flavorful, and a bit indulgent in all the right ways. Whether it’s your first time making it or a tried-and-true favorite, this recipe promises to bring joy and satisfaction to your table. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious casserole that feels like a warm hug on a plate. You’ll be so glad you did.

“`

Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 13 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Scalloped Sweet Potatoes recipe offers a creamy, cheesy, and warmly spiced twist on a classic side dish. Thinly sliced sweet potatoes are layered with a rich sauce made from butter, garlic, parmesan, cheddar, mozzarella, and warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and fresh rosemary. Baked to golden perfection, this comforting casserole is perfect for holiday dinners or any cozy meal.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking once your dish is assembled.
Prepare the sweet potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them as thinly as possible, ideally using a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness, which helps them cook evenly.
Make the base sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about a minute to form a roux.
Add dairy and seasonings: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream to the roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Then add the parmesan cheese, sea salt, black pepper, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and fresh rosemary. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing it to thicken slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Incorporate remaining cheeses: Once the sauce has cooled slightly, stir in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the casserole: Arrange the thin sweet potato slices in overlapping rows or concentric circles inside a greased casserole dish. Pour the cheese and cream sauce evenly over the sweet potatoes, ensuring good coverage.
Bake covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, allowing the sweet potatoes to become tender and the sauce to bubble.
Finish baking uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 8 to 10 minutes. This step helps brown the top, creating a delicious golden crust.
Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with extra fresh rosemary if desired, and serve warm as a hearty and flavorful side dish.

Notes

For even slices, use a mandoline slicer carefully to avoid injury.
Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper, depending on cheese saltiness.
To make the dish ahead, assemble it but bake only for 20 minutes initially; cover and refrigerate, then bake fully just before serving.
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though it may be less creamy.
Fresh rosemary adds great aroma; dried rosemary can be used but reduce quantity to half.
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to set up before serving.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 150g)
Calories: 320
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: scalloped sweet potatoes, cheesy sweet potatoes, baked sweet potatoes, holiday side dish, sweet potato casserole, creamy sweet potatoes