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If you’re on the hunt for something that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe has got you covered. The tender, thinly sliced sweet potatoes baked in a luscious buttery sauce with just the right touch of brown sugar and cozy spices create layers of irresistible flavor. Topped with toasty pecans and those perfectly golden mini marshmallows, this dish transforms humble ingredients into a dazzling showstopper that’s sure to steal the spotlight at any meal or gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic in this Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe comes from the simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create rich flavor, delightful texture, and a welcoming warm hue. Each element plays its part in balancing sweetness, spice, and crunch.
- 5-6 medium sweet potatoes: Peeled and sliced into thin medallions to ensure even cooking and soft, melt-in-your-mouth layers.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter: Provides a creamy richness that carries the sweetness and spices perfectly.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Light or dark brown sugar brings deep caramel notes and adds layered sweetness.
- ½ cup water: Helps the sauce meld together and keeps the potatoes moist during baking.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses a warm, fragrant spice that complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a subtle, aromatic depth that elevates the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Rounds out the spices with its nutty and slightly sweet character.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- ¼ cup chopped pecans: Or walnuts, for a crunchy texture contrast and nutty richness.
- ½ cup mini marshmallows: The crowning glory that melts and toasts into golden, gooey perfection.
How to Make Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. A hot oven is crucial to getting those sweet potatoes tender and melding those delightful flavors right from the get-go.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel your sweet potatoes carefully and slice them into thin medallions. The thinner they are, the more tender and buttery each bite will be. Arrange them evenly in your baking dish so every slice gets a chance to soak up the flavors.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small or medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter with brown sugar, water, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Stir occasionally until everything is combined into a smooth, aromatic sauce that’s sweet, spiced, and ready to coat your sweet potatoes.
Step 4: Coat and Bake
Use a pastry brush to evenly coat about three-quarters of your sauce over the arranged sweet potatoes. Cover the whole dish tightly with foil to trap moisture, then bake for 45 to 50 minutes. This slow bath of flavor and steam softens the potatoes perfectly.
Step 5: Add the Final Touches
Carefully remove the foil and pour the remaining sauce onto the potatoes. Sprinkle the chopped pecans and mini marshmallows over the top, building anticipation for that irresistible finish.
Step 6: Broil to Golden Perfection
Switch your oven to the broil setting and pop the dish back in for just 1 to 2 minutes. Watch closely as the marshmallows puff up and turn a lovely golden brown—this quick step adds a crisp, toasted sweetness that completes the dish.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Pull your scalloped sweet potatoes from the oven and let them rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This pause allows the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld even further, getting your dish ready to impress.
How to Serve Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh burst of color and flavor, consider sprinkling a handful of freshly chopped parsley or a few toasted pecans on top. This adds brightness and an extra layer of texture that balances the richness wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted meats like turkey or pork, making it ideal for festive occasions or cozy family dinners. A crisp green salad or sautéed greens also provide a lovely contrast to the creamy sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with a sprig of rosemary or cinnamon stick for garnish. This not only looks elegant but makes your presentation feel extra special for guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your scalloped sweet potatoes tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—perfect for enjoying a comforting bite later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes beautifully. Use a freezer-safe container and wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn. Frozen scalloped sweet potatoes will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, uncovered, so the top regains its lovely toasted texture. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that fresh-from-the-oven charm intact.
FAQs
Can I use other types of nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts are a fantastic alternative that offer a similar crunch and richness. You could experiment with almonds or even pistachios if you want a different flavor profile.
Are mini marshmallows necessary?
While mini marshmallows are the classic finishing touch for the best gooey, toasted top, you can skip them if you prefer a less sweet or allergy-friendly option. The dish will still be delicious with just nuts on top.
Can I prepare this dish vegan?
Yes! Simply swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, and ensure your marshmallows are vegan or omit them. The spices and sweet potatoes themselves are naturally vegan-friendly.
How thin should I slice the sweet potatoes?
Try to slice them about 1/8 inch thick so they cook evenly and layer beautifully without getting mushy or too firm.
Can I add other spices or flavors?
Feel free! A pinch of ginger or allspice can add a nice twist, or even a splash of maple syrup in the sauce for extra sweetness and complexity.
Final Thoughts
This Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a cozy celebration in every bite. Its balance of sweet, spicy, creamy, and crunchy elements makes it a standout regardless of the occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it out and see for yourself just how easy and rewarding it is to bring this comforting classic to your table.
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Print
Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes recipe features tender, thinly sliced sweet potatoes baked in a rich, buttery brown sugar and spice sauce, topped with toasted mini marshmallows and crunchy pecans. Perfect as a comforting side dish for holiday meals or any cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Sweet Potatoes
- 5–6 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin medallions
Sauce & Toppings
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 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 marshmallows
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F to prepare for baking the sweet potatoes.
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into thin, even medallions. Arrange the slices evenly in your baking dish.
- Make Sauce: In a small or medium saucepan over medium heat, combine unsalted butter, brown sugar, water, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and salt. Stir continuously until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
- Coat Sweet Potatoes: Using a pastry brush, spread about three-quarters of the sauce evenly over the arranged sweet potato slices. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil.
- Bake Covered: Place the foil-covered dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add Toppings: Carefully remove the foil and pour the remaining sauce evenly over the sweet potatoes. Sprinkle chopped pecans and mini marshmallows on top.
- Broil to Toast: Set your oven to the broil setting. Return the dish to the oven and broil for 1-2 minutes until the marshmallows are golden brown and toasted. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm, sweet, and spiced scalloped sweet potatoes!
Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or walnuts.
- Mini marshmallows add a classic sweet topping, but can be skipped or replaced with a sprinkle of brown sugar if preferred.
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
- Make sure the potato slices are evenly thin to ensure even cooking.
- Keep a close eye during broiling since marshmallows can burn quickly.
