The aroma of sweet spices wafts through the kitchen as I prepare my ultimate Scalloped Sweet Potatoes, a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly holiday gathering. This is no ordinary side; it boasts tender medallions of sweet potatoes baked in a luscious buttery brown sugar sauce, with a hint of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Topped off with mini marshmallows and crunchy pecans, these sweet potato sides strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory, guaranteeing they become the star of your Thanksgiving or Christmas feast. Beyond their sophisticated flavors and easy prep, these scalloped sweet potatoes are also a comforting nod to childhood memories, making them an irresistible choice for any gathering. What unique twist will you add to make this dish your own?
Why Are These Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Special?
Decadent flavors: A combination of rich butter, brown sugar, and aromatic spices makes every bite a treat.
Easy to prepare: Perfect for home cooks of any skill level, you’ll find the steps straightforward and approachable.
Eye-catching presentation: With golden marshmallows and crunchy pecans on top, it’s a beautiful dish that impresses at holidays or dinners.
Versatile pairing: They complement any protein beautifully, whether it’s a juicy roast or a holiday turkey. Consider serving them alongside Coconut Shrimp Sweet for a delightful meal!
Nostalgic appeal: These scalloped sweet potatoes evoke warm memories and are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Ingredients
• Dive into a delightful world of flavors with these Scalloped Sweet Potatoes!
For the Base
- Sweet Potatoes – The star of the dish; ensure they are peeled and thinly sliced for the best texture.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds depth and creaminess; if using salted butter, skip the added salt.
- Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and caramel notes; feel free to choose light or dark for different depths of flavor.
- Water – Helps form the luscious sauce that envelops the sweet potatoes.
For the Spices
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and an aromatic tone; a must-have for this sweet potato side.
- Ground Cloves – Offers a distinctive spiced kick; remember, a little goes a long way!
- Ground Nutmeg – Gives a warm, nutty undertone that perfectly complements the sweetness.
- Salt – Important for flavor enhancement; don’t forget it while mixing the sauce.
For the Crunchy Topping
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts – Adds a delightful crunch; choose pecans for sweetness or walnuts for a slightly bitter bite.
- Mini Marshmallows – Melt into gooey sweetness; they turn golden and delicious when broiled, adding a nostalgic touch.
Embrace these ingredients and let the magic happen! Your holiday table will be transformed with these delicious Scalloped Sweet Potatoes!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ultimate Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows and Pecans
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that as soon as your scalloped sweet potatoes are ready, they can go straight into the perfectly heated oven, allowing for even cooking and caramelization.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into thin medallions, aiming for about 1/8-inch thick. Layer these beautiful slices in a baking dish, ensuring they overlap slightly for maximum coverage. This arrangement not only looks appealing but allows for even cooking throughout your scalloped sweet potatoes.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup of unsalted butter, ¾ cup of brown sugar, ¼ cup of water, and your warm spices: 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground cloves, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium, stirring gently until everything melts together and forms a glossy sauce that will envelop your sweet potato medallions in flavor.
Step 4: Coat the Sweet Potatoes
Brush about ¾ of the luscious sauce over the sweet potato medallions, making sure each slice is well-coated with the mixture. This delectable sauce is what makes your scalloped sweet potatoes irresistibly tender and flavorful, so don’t skimp on it.
Step 5: Bake Covered
Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil, ensuring it traps the steam inside. Bake in your preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The foil will help them steam, making sure they’re perfectly cooked through.
Step 6: Add Final Touches
After baking, carefully remove the foil to reveal your steaming scalloped sweet potatoes. Drizzle the remaining sauce over the top, ensuring every bit is generously coated. Sprinkle the pecans over the sweet potatoes, followed by a generous layer of mini marshmallows to create that delightful topping.
Step 7: Broil for Golden Perfection
Place the baking dish under the broiler for just 1-2 minutes, keeping a close watch to prevent the marshmallows from burning. You’re looking for that lovely golden-brown color when the marshmallows puff and toast up; it adds a nostalgic sweetness to your scalloped sweet potatoes.
Step 8: Cool Before Serving
Once broiling is complete, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and makes serving easier. Present these heavenly scalloped sweet potatoes to your guests and watch them disappear!
What to Serve with Heavenly Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows Delight
Looking to create the perfect holiday feast? Let’s explore some delightful pairings that elevate your meal experience.
-
Spiral Ham: This savory centerpiece complements the sweet richness of scalloped sweet potatoes beautifully, balancing flavors and textures at your festive table.
-
Roasted Turkey: A classic choice for any holiday gathering! The juicy, herbed turkey provides a savory contrast to the buttery sweetness of your scalloped sweet potatoes.
-
Green Bean Almondine: Fresh and crunchy, this dish lightens the meal while its nutty flavors echo the pecans in your sweet potatoes, creating harmony in every bite.
-
Corn Casserole: Creamy and comforting, this dish offers a delightful contrast to the slightly crispy topping of your scalloped sweet potatoes.
-
Cranberry Sauce: The zesty sweetness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness, refreshing the palate and enhancing the overall balance of your meal.
-
Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for scooping up the marshmallow topping and sauce. It’s a nostalgic addition that every guest will appreciate!
-
Apple Cider: With its crisp flavors and slight sweetness, a chilled apple cider makes a refreshing drink pairing, enhancing the autumnal vibe of your meal.
-
Pumpkin Pie: No festive gathering is complete without dessert! This classic pumpkin pie with spices feels like a warm hug and is a perfect sweet end to your holiday feast.
How to Store and Freeze Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftover scalloped sweet potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. Always let them cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezer: If you want to extend their shelf life, freeze scalloped sweet potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Ensure they are well-covered to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, around 20-25 minutes. This will help maintain their textures and flavors.
Assembling for Future Meals: You can also prepare the scalloped sweet potatoes ahead of time and freeze them before baking. When ready to serve, bake directly from the freezer until they’re fully cooked.
Expert Tips for Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
-
Even Slices Matter: Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly even sweet potato medallions. This ensures they cook uniformly, avoiding some being overcooked while others remain firm.
-
Butter Choice: If using salted butter, remember to skip extra salt in your sauce. This prevents your scalloped sweet potatoes from becoming overly salty and keeps the flavor balanced.
-
Watch the Broiler: Keep a close eye while broiling the mini marshmallows. They can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in seconds, so stay vigilant for that golden-brown hue.
-
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with spices! Add a pinch of ginger or allspice to elevate the flavor profile of your scalloped sweet potatoes, adding a unique twist to your dish.
-
Layer Tactics: When layering the sweet potatoes, overlap them slightly and avoid packing them too tightly. This allows for a better sauce absorption and ensures even cooking throughout.
Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make these scalloped sweet potatoes your very own with these fun twists!
-
Nut-Free: Simply omit the nuts for a nut-free version that still shines with sweetness and flavor.
-
Creamy Twist: Substitute water with heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce that adds a luscious texture to your dish. This makes each bite incredibly indulgent!
-
Spice it Up: Want to elevate the flavor? Add ground ginger or allspice to the spice mix for an exciting depth of flavor, bringing a new warmth to the holiday classic.
-
Maple Sweetness: Replace brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a distinct twist that adds an earthy sweetness and pairs wonderfully with sweet potatoes.
-
Savory Kick: Try introducing some diced green onions or caramelized leeks to your sweet potatoes before baking for a savory contrast to the sweet.
-
Cheesy Delight: For a delightful fusion, sprinkle some grated cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top before broiling. This adds a wonderful cheesy layer to the already sweet dish that will surprise and delight your guests!
-
Sweet & Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the potatoes.
-
Thanksgiving Favorite: Make a pumpkin twist by incorporating a layer of pumpkin puree mixed into the sweet potato medallions for a seasonal spin, beautifully uniting both fall favorites.
These variations can help you cater to your gathering’s tastes while keeping the spirit of this beloved dish alive. And when pairing it with something like Sweet Air Fryer Churro Bites for dessert, your holiday meal will be nothing short of spectacular!
Make Ahead Options
These Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are fantastic for meal prep and can be a lifesaver during busy holiday weeks! You can slice the sweet potatoes and layer them in the baking dish up to 24 hours in advance, covering them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent browning. Additionally, prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the chilled sauce over the potatoes, cover, and bake as directed. Broil for that golden perfection just before serving. This make-ahead approach allows you to breeze through the meal prep, giving you more time to enjoy with your family and guests while still delivering a deliciously comforting dish!
Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! When selecting sweet potatoes, look for those that are firm and free from dark spots or blemishes. The skin should be smooth and tight; avoid any that feel overly soft or have dark spots all over, as these can indicate spoilage.
What is the best way to store leftover scalloped sweet potatoes?
To keep your scalloped sweet potatoes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which could lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze scalloped sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze scalloped sweet potatoes! Place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap in foil to prevent freezer burn, and they’ll last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake directly from the freezer at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes, ensuring they reach a safe temperature.
What should I do if my sweet potatoes are unevenly cooked?
Very! If you find that some of your sweet potatoes are overcooked while others are still firm, it may be due to uneven slicing or packing them too tightly. For an even cook, slice the potatoes uniformly, around 1/8-inch thick, and layer them in the baking dish without overcrowding.
Do scalloped sweet potatoes contain allergens?
While the ingredients in this recipe are generally safe for most, keep in mind that pecans and walnuts can be allergenic for some individuals. Always check for any nut allergies, and feel free to substitute nuts with a similar texture or omit them entirely. Always ensure that your ingredients do not contain any allergens if serving to guests with dietary restrictions.
Can I prepare scalloped sweet potatoes in advance?
Absolutely! You can prep your scalloped sweet potatoes ahead of time. Assemble the dish in the baking dish without baking it, cover it well, and freeze it. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the freezer, keeping in mind that it may need an extra 10-15 minutes of cooking time to ensure it’s fully heated.
Heavenly Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into thin medallions about 1/8-inch thick, layering them in a baking dish.
- In a small saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, water, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Heat over medium until melted and glossy.
- Brush about ¾ of the sauce over the sweet potato medallions, ensuring all slices are well-coated.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Remove the foil and drizzle the remaining sauce over the sweet potatoes, then sprinkle with pecans and mini marshmallows.
- Broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to achieve a golden-brown color.
- Let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Leave a Reply