Introduction

Scalloped sweet potatoes are a delightful and nutritious twist on the classic scalloped potatoes. This dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with creamy layers and a crispy topping, making it a perfect side for any meal or a comforting main dish. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or a holiday feast, scalloped sweet potatoes are sure to impress with their vibrant color and rich flavor.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Sweet potatoes: 2 large, peeled and thinly sliced
Heavy cream: 1 cup
Milk: 1 cup
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
Cheddar cheese: 1 cup, shredded
Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
Butter: 2 tablespoons, for greasing

Prep Time

The prep time for scalloped sweet potatoes is approximately 15-20 minutes. This includes peeling, slicing, and preparing the ingredients.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is about 1 hour until the sweet potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown. The total time, including prep and cooking, is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. This recipe yields 6 servings, perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties. Enjoy your delicious scalloped sweet potatoes!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the scalloped sweet potatoes.

Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a 2-quart baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent the sweet potatoes from sticking.

Slice the Sweet Potatoes

Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. This will help them cook evenly and quickly.

Layer the Sweet Potatoes

Place a layer of sweet potato slices in the bottom of the greased baking dish. Overlap them slightly for even cooking.

Combine Cream Mixture

In a mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and any spices you are using until well combined.

Pour Cream Mixture

Pour a portion of the cream mixture over the first layer of sweet potatoes, ensuring they are well coated.

Add Cheese

Sprinkle a layer of cheese over the sweet potatoes. Repeat the layering process with the remaining sweet potato slices, cream mixture, and cheese, finishing with cheese on top.

Cover and Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes to allow the sweet potatoes to soften.

Uncover and Continue Baking

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the sweet potatoes are tender.

Cool Before Serving

Allow the scalloped sweet potatoes to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the dish set.

Notes

Storage

Leftover scalloped sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the baked scalloped sweet potatoes. Ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container.

Variations

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or add herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These scalloped sweet potatoes make a great side dish for holiday meals, barbecues, or any family gathering.

Cook techniques

Layering

Layering sweet potatoes with cream and cheese allows for even distribution of flavors and ensures a creamy texture throughout the dish.

Baking

Baking the scalloped sweet potatoes at a moderate temperature ensures they cook evenly, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Slicing

Thinly slicing the sweet potatoes is crucial for ensuring they cook through in the desired time, providing a tender yet structured bite.

Seasoning

Properly seasoning the layers as you construct the dish helps to enhance the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes and balance the flavors.

Creamy Sauce Preparation

Preparing a creamy sauce using milk, cream, and cheese contributes to a rich and indulgent texture that elevates the overall dish.

FAQ

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use other types of potatoes, but the flavor and texture will differ from sweet potatoes, resulting in a variation of the dish.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can be reheated in the oven for the best texture.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, adding other vegetables like spinach or kale can enhance the nutritional value and flavor complexity of the dish.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the dish is gluten-free as it doesn’t require any flour or gluten-containing ingredients.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The dish is done when the top is golden brown and the sweet potatoes are tender, which can be checked with a fork or knife.

Conclusion

Enjoying scalloped sweet potatoes is not only a delightful way to savor the natural sweetness of this root vegetable but also a nutritious addition to your meals. This dish elevates any gathering or family dinner, providing a comforting and flavorful side that complements a variety of main courses. Experimenting with spices and ingredients can lead to endless culinary creations, making it a versatile recipe that can fit any occasion.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Savory Scalloped Potatoes

Swap out sweet potatoes for regular ones and layer them with cheese and herbs for a classic twist that pairs well with roasted meats.

Sweet Potato Casserole

Transform your scalloped sweet potatoes into a wholesome casserole by adding marshmallows or pecans for a sweet finish, perfect for holiday feasts.

Sweet Potato and Spinach Gratin

Incorporate fresh spinach into the layers for added nutrition and a touch of color, making it a lovely side dish for any meal.

Spicy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Add a kick by incorporating jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the dish to spice things up, offering a zesty flavor profile.

Herb-Infused Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance the aroma and taste, creating a fragrant dish that intrigues the palate.