There’s something utterly enchanting about the aroma of scalloped sweet potatoes wafting through your kitchen. Imagine layers of tender, creamy goodness baked to golden perfection, with just a hint of nutty sweetness that dances on your palate. cheesy garlic cauliflower side dish This dish is not just a side; it’s a culinary hug that warms your heart and brings everyone to the table. creamy chicken dish.
Every bite of scalloped sweet potatoes takes me back to family gatherings, where laughter echoed around the dinner table. My Aunt Martha would proudly present her signature dish, and by the end of the night, no one could resist going for seconds (or thirds). The anticipation of that first forkful was almost as delightful as the indulgence itself. For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Sweet Potato Casserole recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Scalloped sweet potatoes are simple to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or festive occasions
- The flavors meld beautifully in every layer, creating a comforting experience
- Their vibrant color makes them visually appealing and adds a pop to any plate
- Plus, they are versatile enough to complement various main dishes or stand alone as a star attraction
I remember one Thanksgiving when my cousin declared he was “too cool” for sweet potatoes until he had a taste. The grin on his face after one bite was priceless—he didn’t just eat his words; he devoured a whole serving!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm, medium-sized sweet potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
- Heavy Cream: Use heavy cream for richness; it creates that dreamy, velvety sauce.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the flavor profile; feel free to adjust based on preference.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds depth; you can also experiment with Gruyère or mozzarella for variety.
- Butter: A little butter enhances the creaminess while adding a luxurious mouthfeel.
- Fresh Thyme: Fresh thyme brings an aromatic touch; dried thyme works in a pinch but fresh is best!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and that golden crust we all crave.
Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into thin rounds—aim for about ¼ inch thick so they cook evenly. Try not to snack too much while slicing!
Mix The Cream Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme. This creamy concoction will be bathing our potatoes in deliciousness.
Layer It Up!: In a greased baking dish, start layering the sweet potato slices. Pour some of that heavenly cream mixture over each layer before adding more potatoes—keep it cozy!
Add Cheese On Top: Sprinkle shredded cheese generously between layers and on top. Trust me; this melty goodness is what dreams are made of!
Bake To Perfection: Cover with foil and bake for about 45 minutes until tender. Remove the foil in the last 15 minutes to allow that cheesy top to bubble up and turn golden brown.
Enjoy crafting this dish! You’ll love every moment spent making it—and every second devouring it even more!
You Must Know
- Scalloped sweet potatoes are a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining sweetness and creaminess
- They’re perfect for holidays or cozy dinners, providing comfort in every bite
- The enticing aroma while baking will have everyone gathering in the kitchen, eagerly awaiting the first taste
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve creamy scalloped sweet potatoes, slice them evenly, layer with cheese and cream, then bake until golden brown. s’mores cookies for dessert This ensures each layer cooks perfectly while blending flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even sprinkle in some crispy bacon for added flavor. Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavor profiles.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to restore creaminess and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked scalloped sweet potatoes, keep slices uniform to ensure even cooking
- Avoid overloading layers; they need space to steam properly
- Lastly, let it sit after baking; this helps flavors meld beautifully
Sharing my first experience making scalloped sweet potatoes was unforgettable! My friends raved about them, and I felt like a culinary superstar that day.
FAQ
Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! Regular potatoes will work but won’t provide the same sweetness.
How can I make scalloped sweet potatoes healthier?
Consider using low-fat milk or substituting half of the cream with vegetable broth.
What can I serve with scalloped sweet potatoes?
These delicious scalloped sweet potatoes pair well with roasted chicken or grilled vegetables for a complete meal. sweet potato bowls with chicken.
Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Scalloped sweet potatoes are a comforting, creamy side dish that elevates any meal with their rich flavors and vibrant colors. Layers of tender sweet potatoes, infused with garlic and herbs, are baked to golden perfection beneath a bubbly cheese topping. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, providing a warm and delightful experience that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼ inch rounds
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp butter, for greasing the baking dish
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with butter. Layer the sweet potato slices evenly in the dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour some over each layer of sweet potatoes.
- Generously sprinkle shredded cheese between layers and on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes until tender. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown.
- Let sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 60mg