Name: Creamy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes for Your Festive Feast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 3 pounds Sweet Potatoes (Peeled and sliced); 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced); 1 medium Shallot (Finely chopped, can swap with green onions); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Adjust if using table salt); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly cracked for best taste); 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme (Can use dried thyme in smaller amounts); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Substitute with whole milk or plant-based cream if desired); 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Grated; can substitute with Asiago or dairy-free cheese)

The aroma of roasting sweet potatoes often transports me to cozy family gatherings, where laughter and warmth fill the air. Today, I’m excited to share my Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes in Creamy Parmesan Sauce – the perfect side dish that brings a touch of elegance to any meal. These delightful scalloped sweet potatoes are not only gluten-free and vegetarian but also a breeze to prepare, making them an ideal fit for festive occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas. With a rich, creamy sauce that contrasts beautifully with the natural sweetness of the potatoes, you’ll be left with a comforting dish that warms both the heart and the belly. Curious about the secret to achieving that golden, crispy top? Let’s dive in and discover how to take your holiday table to the next level!

Why Are Scalloped Sweet Potatoes a Must-Have?

Unmatched Comfort: Scalloped sweet potatoes redefine comfort food. With tender layers bathed in a creamy parmesan sauce, every bite feels like a warm hug!

Effortless Preparation: With simple steps, you can impress your guests without breaking a sweat. There’s no need for complicated techniques—just slice, mix, and bake!

Flavor Harmony: Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and savory as garlic, thyme, and parmesan enhance the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.

Versatile Occasions: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, these scalloped sweet potatoes adapt effortlessly to any occasion. For a complete meal, pair them with Green Beans Potatoes or Grilled Chicken Sweet.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: They’re sure to please everyone at the table, even those who aren’t usually fond of sweet potatoes! Get ready for compliments!

Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Ingredients

Get ready to create the ultimate comfort dish with these essential ingredients!

For the Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness makes them the star of this dish; they create a beautiful base.
Unsalted Butter – Adds rich flavor to the creamy sauce; substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free alternative.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances the aroma; use garlic powder in a pinch if needed.
Shallot – Offers a delicate onion flavor; feel free to swap with green onions for a milder taste.
Kosher Salt – Enhances every flavor in the dish; adjust if using table salt due to grain size differences.
Black Pepper – Freshly cracked pepper gives the best taste; a hint of spice elevates the dish!
Fresh Thyme – Adds a lovely herbal note; use dried thyme in smaller amounts if fresh isn’t available.
Heavy Cream – Creates a luxurious sauce; switch to whole milk or a plant-based cream for a lighter version.
Parmesan Cheese – Contributes savory richness; Asiago or dairy-free cheese can work as substitutes.

Feel free to experiment and make this scalloped sweet potatoes dish your own!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). As the oven heats up, lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent the scalloped sweet potatoes from sticking. This step sets the stage for a deliciously baked dish that is both creamy and crispy on top, ensuring a delightful contrast of textures.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
While the oven is heating, take your sweet potatoes and peel them carefully. Using a mandolin or a sharp knife, slice them into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. Combine all the sliced sweet potatoes in a large bowl, making sure they are evenly coated and ready to soak up the creamy sauce you’ll prepare next.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add in 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 finely chopped shallot. Sauté these aromatics for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent, stirring frequently to avoid burning. This flavorful base will enhance the creamy sauce for your scalloped sweet potatoes.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Stir in 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme, and season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper to the sautéed mixture. Gradually pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring continuously, and then add 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and well-combined. This luscious sauce will envelop the sweet potatoes perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Sweet Potatoes and Sauce
Pour the creamy sauce over the bowl of sliced sweet potatoes. Gently toss to ensure each slice is coated in that irresistible mix. Then, carefully arrange the potato slices upright in the greased baking dish, layering them tightly. Make sure to pour any remaining sauce over the top for added richness before moving to the oven.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and let the scalloped sweet potatoes bake for 50-60 minutes. After about 40 minutes, check for doneness; the potatoes should be fork-tender and the top should become golden and slightly crispy. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t over-brown while developing that perfect, bubbling goodness.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly for 5-10 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle a few fresh thyme leaves on top for a vibrant burst of color and flavor. Serve these creamy scalloped sweet potatoes warm, and watch them steal the show at your next festive feast!

What to Serve with Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

The perfect side dish deserves an equally delightful ensemble to elevate your meal experience.

Herb-Roasted Chicken: Juicy and tender, this flavorful chicken beautifully complements the creamy sweetness of scalloped sweet potatoes. Its savory notes will balance the dish perfectly, making every bite a celebration.
Garlic Green Beans: Crisp and vibrant, these green beans are a refreshing contrast to the rich creamy sauce. Tossed in minced garlic and olive oil, they add an irresistible crunch that brightens your plate.
Brown Sugar-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the sweet potatoes, while the caramelization adds an additional layer of warmth to your festive feast. A delightful blend of textures, they’re sure to please the whole family!
Creamy Coleslaw: This cool, crunchy side brings a refreshing contrast to the warmth of scalloped sweet potatoes. The creamy dressing will echo the richness of your dish, creating a satisfying balance on your palate.
Thyme-Lemon Roasted Salmon: Aromatic thyme and zesty lemon enhance the umami of the salmon, offering a sophisticated pairing that complements the sweet potatoes’ earthy sweetness.
Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: A crisp, dry white wine adds elegance to your meal, enhancing the overall flavors without overpowering them. Enjoy a glass chilled while savoring your festive creations.

Exploring these pairings will take your culinary experience to heartwarming new heights!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are a fantastic meal prep solution for busy cooks looking to save time during festive days! You can slice the sweet potatoes and prepare the creamy parmesan sauce up to 24 hours in advance, storing both components separately in the refrigerator to maintain their fresh flavors and textures. When ready to bake, simply layer the sweet potatoes in the baking dish, pour the sauce over them, and bake as directed. To ensure the dish remains just as delicious, avoid combining the ingredients until you’re ready to pop it in the oven, preventing any sogginess. With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll have a delightful side dish that’s easy to serve, leaving you more time to enjoy your gatherings!

How to Store and Freeze Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

• Fridge: Store leftover scalloped sweet potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a low oven to maintain the creamy texture and crispy top.

• Freezer: While not recommended for freezing due to potential texture changes, if necessary, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

• Reheating: Gently reheat in the oven to ensure even warming. Cover with foil if the top becomes too brown. Enjoy the warm goodness of scalloped sweet potatoes straight from the oven!

Expert Tips for Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

• Even Slices: Ensure consistent cooking by slicing sweet potatoes evenly, preferably using a mandolin. Thicker slices may remain firm while the sauce gets too thick.

• Doneness Check: To avoid undercooked potatoes, test doneness with a fork after 50 minutes; the potatoes should be fork-tender but not mushy when making your scalloped sweet potatoes.

• Sauce Thickness: If the sauce appears too thick after combining, add a splash of extra cream. This will ensure a creamy consistency that coats the potatoes beautifully.

• Bake Time Variation: Keep in mind that oven temperatures can vary, so watch closely towards the end of baking. Adjust time based on the thickness of potato slices.

• Serving Tip: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors and make for easier serving. Enjoy your scalloped sweet potatoes warm for the best experience!

Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize these delicious scalloped sweet potatoes to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Let your creativity shine in the kitchen!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a nut-based milk for a lighter, dairy-free version without sacrificing creaminess.
Bacon Lovers: Add crispy crumbled bacon on top before baking for extra savory flavor and delightful crunch.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in different cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for a unique twist on the Parmesan flavor that tantalizes the taste buds.
Herb Infusion: Swap fresh thyme with rosemary or sage for a distinct herbal note that enhances the dish’s complexity and aroma.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños to add a spicy twist that will make your taste buds dance with delight.
Veggie Boost: Add layers of sautéed spinach or kale for a nutritious and colorful surprise that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.
Sweet Finish: Drizzle maple syrup or sprinkle brown sugar on top before baking to create a caramelized top that elevates the overall sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pecans or walnuts for an unexpected crunchy layer that brings texture and richness to your scalloped dish.

Try mixing and matching these variations to create your perfect version of scalloped sweet potatoes. Don’t forget to pair them with a side of Herb Roasted Potatoes or savory Garlic Butter Potatoes for a complete festive feast!

Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best sweet potatoes for this recipe?
Look for firm sweet potatoes with smooth, unblemished skin, avoiding any that show signs of dark spots or softness. Ideally, choose medium-sized sweet potatoes that feel heavy for their size, ensuring they have the perfect sweetness and creaminess for your scalloped sweet potatoes.

What’s the best way to store leftover scalloped sweet potatoes?
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for about 20-25 minutes to maintain that creamy texture and crispy top. Cover with foil if the top starts to brown too much!

Can I freeze scalloped sweet potatoes?
While I don’t recommend freezing them due to potential texture changes, you can freeze them if needed. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a sealed freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently in the oven for the best results.

What if my sweet potatoes are too firm after baking?
If you find that your scalloped sweet potatoes are still firm after the recommended baking time, don’t worry! Just cover the dish with foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a fork, and make sure they are fork-tender before serving.

Are scalloped sweet potatoes suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it features sweet potatoes and a creamy sauce without any flour or gluten-containing ingredients. However, always double-check any cheese substitutes you might use to ensure they are gluten-free if required.

Can I use a dairy-free alternative for this recipe?
Yes! To make this dish dairy-free, simply replace the heavy cream with a plant-based cream made from nuts or coconut milk and opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative. Olive oil can substitute butter, ensuring a delicious and creamy scalloped sweet potato dish that everyone can enjoy!