Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, indulgent dish that hits all the right notes of sweet, spicy, and rich, then you absolutely have to try the Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes. This recipe transforms humble sweet potatoes into a luscious casserole bursting with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, finished with a buttery brown sugar glaze, crunchy pecans, and those irresistible toasted mini marshmallows on top. It’s the perfect dish to wow your family or guests at any festive gathering or cozy dinner night, bringing a slice of sweet, creamy magic right to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because it uses simple, everyday ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture that make the dish special. From the soft, delicate sweetness of the potatoes themselves to the deep warmth of the spices, every component plays a delicious part.

• Sweet potatoes (5-6 medium, peeled & thinly sliced): The star of the show, delivering natural sweetness and tender texture.
• Unsalted butter (¼ cup): Adds richness and helps meld the flavors together smoothly.
• Brown sugar (¼ cup, light or dark): Brings a caramel-like sweetness with depth.
• Water (½ cup): Keeps the potatoes moist and creates a flavorful syrup.
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Infuses the dish with that familiar warm, aromatic spice.
• Ground cloves (1 teaspoon): Offers a bold, slightly sweet and spicy undertone.
• Ground nutmeg (1 teaspoon): Adds gentle nutty warmth that complements the sweetness.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances the flavors and enhances sweetness.
• Chopped pecans (¼ cup): Provides a crunchy texture and nutty richness; walnuts work great too.
• Mini marshmallows (½ cup): The classic finishing touch that melts and toasts beautifully on top.

How to Make Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Prep and Arrange the Sweet Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F, then peel and slice your sweet potatoes into thin, even medallions. Layering them evenly in your baking dish ensures every bite gets that creamy softness that defines the Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes.

Step 2: Create the Flavorful Sauce

In a small to medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, brown sugar, water, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Stir continuously as these ingredients melt and marry together into a glossy, fragrant sauce that will soak into the sweet potato medallions, amplifying their natural sweetness with a cozy spice blend.

Step 3: Coat the Potatoes and Bake Covered

Using a pastry brush, generously coat about three-quarters of your warm sauce evenly over the sweet potato slices. Cover the dish tightly with foil; this traps steam and helps soften the potatoes as the flavors meld together while baking for 45 to 50 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches and Broil

Once baked, remove the foil and brush the remaining sauce over the potatoes. Sprinkle the chopped pecans and mini marshmallows on top—these will add crunch and a bubbly, toasted finish. Set your oven to broil and pop the dish in for just 1 to 2 minutes. Watch carefully; those marshmallows toast fast and should come out golden and perfectly gooey.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let your scalloped sweet potatoes cool for 10 to 15 minutes before digging in. This resting time helps the sauce thicken slightly and the dish set, ensuring spoonfuls of pure creamy, sweet comfort with every bite.

How to Serve Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans or a pinch of cinnamon on top just before serving. Fresh thyme leaves can add a subtle herbal note that complements the sweetness beautifully.

Side Dishes

Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes pair wonderfully with savory mains like roasted turkey, baked ham, or even a simply grilled chicken breast. Their sweet, spiced profile balances hearty, salty dishes perfectly, making them ideal for holiday spreads or special family dinners.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, try layering the scalloped sweet potatoes in individual ramekins for personal servings. You could also mix in dried cranberries for bursts of tartness or swirl in some cream cheese between layers for extra richness that’s simply irresistible.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer your scalloped sweet potatoes to an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick reheats or planned meals.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, too! Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the marshmallows might lose some of their texture after freezing, but the flavors will remain delightful.

Reheating

To reheat, place the dish in a 350°F oven covered with foil until warmed through (about 20-25 minutes). For that fresh-baked flavor, add a handful of mini marshmallows on top in the last few minutes to toast again under the broiler!

FAQs

Can I use other types of nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or even almonds work well if pecans aren’t your favorite or not on hand. They all add a nice crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweet potatoes.

Is it necessary to peel the sweet potatoes?

Peeling helps create a smoother, more cohesive texture in this dish, but if you prefer extra nutrients and don’t mind a bit of texture, leaving the skin on is totally fine.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To veganize this recipe, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and opt for vegan marshmallows. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan, so it’s easy to adapt!

What can I use instead of mini marshmallows?

If marshmallows aren’t your thing, try a crunchy crumble topping with brown sugar, chopped nuts, and a little coconut oil for a different but still delicious twist.

How do I ensure the sweet potatoes cook evenly?

Cutting the sweet potatoes into uniformly thin medallions is key. This helps them bake at the same rate, resulting in tender, evenly cooked layers throughout the dish.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes that makes it a treasured recipe worth keeping close. With its inviting aroma, delightful combination of creamy and crunchy, and the perfect balance of sweet and spice, it’s sure to win hearts and become a cherished staple at your table. I can’t wait for you to try it and make plenty of happy memories with every serving!

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