Name: Heavenly Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Your Family Will Love
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 3 pounds Sweet Potatoes (Can substitute with Yukon Gold or Russet.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Himalayan or sea salt works just as well.); 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Can use olive oil for a dairy-free version.); 2 cloves Garlic (Fresh cloves are ideal.); 1 medium Shallot (Can substitute with yellow onion.); 1 teaspoon Fresh Black Pepper (Freshly cracked for best flavor.); 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme (Dried thyme can be used in a pinch.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Can substitute with half-and-half or non-dairy cream.); 1 cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese (Gruyère or Pecorino also work well.)

The aroma of roasted sweet potatoes wafts through my kitchen, transporting me to cozy family gatherings where comfort food reigns supreme. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes, a delicious twist that marries the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes with a creamy garlic parmesan sauce. This dish isn’t just a crowd-pleaser; it’s also gluten-free and vegetarian, making it an ideal side for holiday meals or simple weeknight dinners. The rich, velvety layers and golden, crispy top make it look as good as it tastes—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself. Ready to transform your dining table? Let’s dive into this comforting and satisfying recipe together!

Why are scalloped sweet potatoes so special?

Irresistible Creaminess: The creamy garlic parmesan sauce envelops each tender sweet potato slice, creating a luxurious bite that everyone will love.

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this impressive side dish that seems like it took hours to prepare!

Versatile Ingredients: Whether you’re using sweet potatoes or trying Yukon Gold for a twist, the options for substitutions keep this recipe fresh and exciting.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive holiday meal or a cozy weeknight dinner, these Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes shine as a delightful side dish that complements various entrees beautifully.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: With its vibrant flavors and hearty appeal, this dish is sure to become a favorite—pair it alongside dishes like Garlic Butter Potatoes for a complete feast!

Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Layer

Sweet Potatoes – These are the stars of the dish, providing natural sweetness and a creamy texture; feel free to substitute with Yukon Gold or Russet for a different flavor profile.
Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing the flavors; Himalayan or sea salt works just as well.

For the Cream Sauce

Unsalted Butter – This adds richness to the sauce; you can use olive oil for a dairy-free twist.
Garlic – Fresh cloves are ideal for aromatic depth; the stronger the garlic, the more flavor you’ll have!
Shallot – Offers a sweet onion flavor; yellow onion can be used if shallots are unavailable.
Fresh Black Pepper – Freshly cracked black pepper ensures optimal flavor enhances that creamy sauce.
Fresh Thyme – Infuses the dish with herbal notes; if you’re in a pinch, dried thyme can work, but use less.
Heavy Cream – This is key to a rich, velvety sauce; half-and-half or a non-dairy cream can be a lighter substitute.
Shredded Parmesan Cheese – Adds umami depth and helps achieve a golden-brown crust; Gruyère or Pecorino can also create a delightful variation.

Feel free to mix it up while you prepare these Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes. The harmony of flavors will maintain the heart of this comforting side dish no matter your choices!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring your cooking environment is ready for these delightful Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes. While the oven warms up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking, setting the stage for a beautifully baked dish.

Step 2: Slice the Sweet Potatoes
Carefully peel and thinly slice your sweet potatoes, aiming for about 1/8-inch rounds to promote even cooking. For precise cuts, consider using a mandolin if you have one. Pile the sweet potato slices into a large mixing bowl, admiring their vibrant orange color that promises a naturally sweet flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is sizzling, add in 2 minced garlic cloves and one diced shallot, sautéing them for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and softened. This aromatic blend forms the flavor base of your creamy garlic parmesan sauce.

Step 4: Combine Flavors
Remove the saucepan from heat and sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme, along with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and a pinch of fresh black pepper. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded parmesan cheese until everything is well-combined, creating a velvety sauce that will envelop your sweet potatoes.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Pour the creamy sauce over the sweet potato slices in the mixing bowl, gently tossing to coat each slice evenly. Next, arrange the coated sweet potato rounds upright in your prepared baking dish, creating a beautiful layered effect. Pour any remaining sauce over the top, ensuring each piece is submerged.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender. For an appealing golden crust, remove the foil in the last 10 minutes of baking or broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve that perfect bubbly topping.

Step 7: Serve with Garnish
Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a pop of color and added flavor before serving. Your Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are now ready to bring love and comfort to your family’s table!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance by prepping the sweet potatoes and cream sauce separately. Simply follow the recipe instructions through the assembly step, then cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. This keeps the sweet potatoes fresh and prevents browning. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting side, just remove it from the fridge, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and bake as directed. You’ll have creamy, savory scalloped sweet potatoes that taste just as delicious, with minimal effort!

Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this dish uniquely yours with these flavorful options!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegan Parmesan for a luscious, creamy sauce without dairy.
The sweetness of coconut cream complements the sweet potatoes beautifully, creating a tropical twist.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes for a lively heat that balances the sweetness of the potatoes.
If you’d like an extra layer of flavor, toss in some smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness too!
Cheesy Delight: Swap out Parmesan for Gruyère cheese for a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the dish further.
This variation adds a whole new depth of comfort food that is bound to impress your guests.
Sweet Savory Twist: Drizzle some maple syrup or hot honey over the top before serving, blending sweet and savory perfectly.
This adds a contrasting flavor that tantalizes the taste buds, making each bite irresistible.
Vegetable Boost: Layer in thin slices of zucchini or spinach between the sweet potato rounds for added nutrition and flavor.
The added veggies bring a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the overall dish while keeping it satisfying.
Herb Infusion: Swap fresh thyme for rosemary or sage for a different herbal note that beautifully complements the richness.
Imagine the aromatic scents wafting through your kitchen as this new flavor profile emerges.
Bacon Flavor: Sprinkle in crispy bacon bits or pancetta for a delightful crunch and savory richness that will have everyone asking for seconds.
The salty, smoky flavor from the bacon contrasts perfectly with the sweet potatoes’ natural sweetness.

Pair these variations with dishes like Garlic Butter Potatoes for a well-rounded meal sure to impress at any gathering!

How to Store and Freeze Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and keep the flavors intact.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through, to keep that creamy texture.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes, as it can compromise the creamy sauce and texture upon thawing.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 2 days; simply bake fresh when ready to serve!

What to Serve with Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Creating the perfect meal means finding delightful pairings that enhance flavors and mood.

Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken: This savory chicken complements the creamy sweetness, providing a delicious protein that balances the dish beautifully.
Green Bean Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with almonds offer a crunchy texture, adding a refreshing brightness alongside the scalloped potatoes.
Maple Glazed Carrots: The sweetness of maple-glazed carrots enhances the sweet potato flavor, creating a harmonious blend of comforting tastes.
Cranberry Sauce: A tart, tangy cranberry sauce provides a burst of freshness that cuts through the creaminess of the potatoes, making each bite exciting.
Savory Stuffing: A savory stuffing filled with herbs brings earthiness to your plate, making it a wonderful companion for holiday feasts.
Light Salad with Vinaigrette: A crisp salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette introduces bright flavors that balance the richness of the scalloped potatoes.
Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio: A chilled glass of white wine with fruity notes pairs wonderfully, accentuating the sweet and savory elements of the dish.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a silky chocolate mousse offers a decadent finish, delighting your senses after the satisfying main course.
Pumpkin Pie: The traditional dessert, with its spiced flavors, makes an excellent ending to a meal featuring sweet potatoes, evoking feelings of home and warmth.
Garlic Butter Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks soak up every bit of creamy sauce left on the plate, ensuring no flavors go to waste!

Expert Tips for Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Uniform Slices: Ensure even slicing with a mandolin for uniform cooking; this helps all pieces cook at the same rate, avoiding mushy or crunchy spots.
Peel for Creaminess: Peel sweet potatoes for a creamier texture; while leaving the skins on adds nutrients, it can affect sauce absorption.
Timely Taste Test: Bake until fork-tender, checking halfway through to adjust timing based on slice thickness and softness—overbaking can lead to mushy edges.
Make Ahead: Assemble in advance and refrigerate unbaked for up to two days; this allows flavors to meld and makes serving a breeze.
Avoid Freezing: To maintain quality, avoid freezing the dish; reheating can alter the texture and sauce integrity of your Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes.

Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe sweet potatoes?
Selecting sweet potatoes involves looking for firm, smooth-skinned options without any dark spots or blemishes. The skin should be slightly shiny, and feel heavy for its size, indicating a sweeter and creamier texture.

How do I store leftover scalloped sweet potatoes?
Place leftover Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and maintains the creaminess of the dish.

Can I freeze Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes?
Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as it can compromise the creamy sauce and texture upon thawing. Instead, consider assembling the dish in advance and refrigerating it unbaked for up to 2 days before baking it fresh when ready to serve.

What should I do if my scalloped potatoes are not creamy?
To ensure creaminess, make sure to combine the cream and cheese thoroughly before pouring over the sweet potatoes. If your dish comes out too dry, you can add a splash of heavy cream or milk while reheating to enhance the creaminess and moisture.

Are scalloped sweet potatoes safe for pets or dietary restrictions?
While sweet potatoes are safe for many pets in moderation, be cautious of the additional ingredients used in this recipe. Garlic, for instance, can be toxic to dogs, so keep it away from your furry friends. Always check for allergies and dietary restrictions with your guests beforehand.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! To adapt Easy Scalloped Sweet Potatoes for a dairy-free option, simply substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative, use a non-dairy cream such as almond or coconut cream, and omit the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free cheese option for a similar texture.