Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

The Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are a must-have for any festive gathering. This delightful dish features thin sweet potato medallions enveloped in a rich, buttery brown sugar sauce, perfectly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Topped with mini vegan marshmallows and crunchy pecans, this recipe stands out for its sweet and savory flavor balance. Whether for Christmas or Thanksgiving, these scalloped sweet potatoes will impress your guests and add warmth to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet potatoes with spices creates a comforting taste that pairs well with any meal.
• Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for holiday feasts or weeknight dinners, this recipe complements various main courses.
• Kid-Friendly Delight: The sweetness of the dish makes it appealing to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone will enjoy it.
• Vegan-Friendly Option: Using vegan marshmallows allows this recipe to cater to different dietary preferences while still being delicious.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes, you’ll need some essential tools to simplify your cooking process. Having the right equipment can make all the difference when preparing this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Medium saucepan
• Pastry brush
• Peeler
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and presentation of your scalloped sweet potatoes.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for melting butter and mixing your sauce ingredients evenly.
• Pastry brush: Helps distribute the sauce evenly over the sweet potatoes for maximum flavor.
• Peeler: Makes peeling sweet potatoes quick and easy, saving you time in preparation.

Ingredients

For the Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes, gather the following ingredients:

• 5-6 medium sweet potatoes (Peeled & cut into thin medallions)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (see note below)
• ¼ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• ½ cup water
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup chopped pecans (or walnuts)
• ½ cup mini vegan marshmallows (see note below)

How to Make Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Prepare Sweet Potatoes

1. Peel the sweet potatoes using a peeler.
2. Cut them into thin medallions.
3. Arrange the medallions in your baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Place a small or medium saucepan on the stovetop.
2. Add unsalted butter, brown sugar, water, spices (cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg), and salt to the pan.
3. Turn the heat to medium and stir as the ingredients melt together until fully combined.

Step 4: Bake Sweet Potatoes

1. Use a pastry brush to evenly coat ¾ of your sauce mixture onto the sweet potato medallions.
2. Cover the baking dish with foil.
3. Bake in preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes.

Step 5: Add Toppings

1. Remove the baking dish from the oven and take off the foil.
2. Drizzle with the remaining ¼ of your sauce mixture over the potato medallions.
3. Sprinkle chopped pecans and mini vegan marshmallows on top.

Step 6: Broil for Perfection

1. Return the baking dish to the oven and switch it to broil mode.
2. Broil for just 1-2 minutes until marshmallows are toasted; watch closely!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Remove from oven and let cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delightful Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes!

How to Serve Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Serving Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes can enhance any meal, especially festive gatherings. These sweet and savory medallions pair beautifully with various dishes and add a touch of elegance to your table.

With a Protein

• Roast Chicken: The savory flavors of roast chicken complement the sweetness of the scalloped potatoes.
• Grilled Turkey Breast: Juicy turkey breast adds a lean protein element that pairs well with the creamy texture.

As Part of a Holiday Feast

• With Stuffing: Serve alongside stuffing for that classic holiday flavor combination.
• On a Buffet Table: These potatoes can be a show-stopper when shared at potlucks or buffet-style dinners.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnished with Chives: Adding fresh chives enhances the dish’s presentation and flavor.
• Sprinkled with Parsley: A touch of parsley brightens up the dish and adds color.

How to Perfect Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

To ensure your Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose uniform slices: Cut sweet potatoes into even medallions for consistent cooking.
• Don’t rush the sauce: Allow the butter and sugar mixture to melt completely for optimal flavor infusion.
• Cover while baking: Use foil during the initial bake to keep moisture in, ensuring tender potatoes.
• Watch closely while broiling: Keep an eye on them under the broiler to prevent burning those marshmallows!
• Let it sit before serving: Allowing the dish to cool slightly helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes can be paired with several delightful side dishes that elevate your meal. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Green Bean Casserole: A creamy and crunchy side that balances sweetness with savory flavors.
2. Maple Roasted Carrots: The caramelized sweetness of carrots complements the rich taste of scalloped potatoes.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting combination.
4. Brussels Sprouts Salad: A fresh salad with roasted Brussels sprouts adds crunch and a tangy bite.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with vegetables offers a nutritious contrast to sweet potatoes.
6. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce provides a refreshing burst against the sweet backdrop of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. Avoiding these will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Not slicing sweet potatoes evenly: Uneven slices can lead to uneven cooking. Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to achieve consistent thickness.
• Skipping the foil cover initially: Covering the baking dish with foil helps steam the sweet potatoes for tenderness. Always cover at the beginning of baking and remove it later for browning.
• Using too much or too little sauce: Balance is key. Ensure you coat the medallions properly without drowning them in sauce. Follow the recipe measurements closely.
• Not monitoring during broiling: Broiling can quickly burn the marshmallows if left unattended. Keep a close eye on them for the best results.
• Forgetting to let it cool before serving: Allowing scalloped sweet potatoes to cool slightly helps set the dish and improves flavor. Patience pays off!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed, and stir until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, while sweet potatoes add unique flavor, you can use regular potatoes if desired. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

To make vegan Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative, and ensure your marshmallows are vegan.

What can I serve with scalloped sweet potatoes?

These sweet potatoes pair well with roasted vegetables and protein options like chicken or turkey for a complete meal.

How long does it take to prepare?

The total time is approximately 70 minutes, including prep and cook time.

Final Thoughts

The Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal, especially during festive occasions. Their rich flavor profile makes them versatile enough to customize with your favorite spices or toppings. Try this recipe for your next holiday gathering or family dinner!