Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

This Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes recipe is sure to impress at your next gathering. With its rich, buttery brown sugar sauce and aromatic spices, this dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Perfect for Christmas or Thanksgiving, these scalloped sweet potatoes bring warmth and joy to any table. Enjoy the combination of sweet potatoes topped with mini vegan marshmallows and crunchy pecans that adds both texture and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal prep time and simple steps, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves elevates the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
• Versatile Side Dish: Ideal for holiday dinners or everyday meals, these scalloped sweet potatoes fit in perfectly with any menu.
• Vegan-Friendly Option: Using mini vegan marshmallows allows everyone to enjoy this delightful dish without compromising dietary preferences.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes this dish a favorite among friends and family alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes, having the right tools can make all the difference. Below are essential items you’ll need for smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Medium saucepan
• Pastry brush
• Vegetable peeler
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and helps retain moisture in your sweet potatoes.
• Medium saucepan: This is essential for melting butter and combining your sauce ingredients effortlessly.
• Pastry brush: Using a pastry brush allows you to evenly distribute the sauce over the sweet potato medallions for optimal flavor.

Ingredients

To prepare your 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) to ensure it’s hot enough for cooking.

Step 2: Prepare Sweet Potatoes

Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into thin medallions. Arrange these medallions neatly in a baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat:
1. Add the unsalted butter, brown sugar, water, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and salt.
2. Stir constantly until everything melts together into a smooth sauce.

Step 4: Coat Sweet Potatoes

Use a pastry brush to evenly spread about three-quarters of your melted sauce over the arranged sweet potato medallions. Cover the baking dish with foil.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 45 to 50 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Add Final Touches

Remove from oven and take off the foil. Pour the remaining sauce over the top. Sprinkle with chopped pecans and mini vegan marshmallows.

Step 7: Broil

Return to oven on broil setting for just 1-2 minutes until marshmallows are toasted. Watch closely as they can brown quickly!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow to cool for approximately 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy this delightful side dish!

How to Serve Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes make a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to help you enjoy this flavorful dish.

For a Holiday Feast

• Serve alongside roasted turkey or chicken for a balanced meal.
• Pair with a fresh cranberry sauce for a sweet and tart contrast.

With Green Vegetables

• Complement with steamed green beans tossed in olive oil and lemon.
• Add sautéed Brussels sprouts with a sprinkle of garlic for extra flavor.

As Part of a Cozy Dinner

• Enjoy with baked chicken thighs marinated in herbs for warmth.
• Serve with a crisp side salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette to refresh the palate.

For Meal Prep

• Pack in individual containers with grilled vegetables for easy lunches.
• Serve cold as part of a salad with leafy greens and vinaigrette.

How to Perfect Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

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

• Use even slices: Make sure sweet potato medallions are uniformly sliced to ensure even cooking.
• Monitor the baking time: Keep an eye on the dish while it bakes; adjust cooking time if needed based on your oven’s performance.
• Allow to cool: Let the dish sit after broiling to allow flavors to meld and make serving easier.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spice amounts or add new ones like ginger or allspice for unique flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes pair beautifully with various dishes. Here are some excellent side dishes to serve alongside them.

1. Roasted Chicken – Juicy, seasoned chicken complements the sweetness of scalloped potatoes.
2. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly charred asparagus adds freshness and crunch.
3. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed salad with vegetables enhances your meal’s nutritional value.
4. Honey Glazed Carrots – Sweet carrots provide an additional layer of sweetness that pairs well.
5. Creamy Spinach – Rich, creamy spinach balances the fluffy texture of the potatoes nicely.
6. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower – A lighter alternative to mashed potatoes that adds richness without heaviness.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful peppers filled with grains and veggies offer variety on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you create the Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using uneven slices – Thin, even medallions ensure that the sweet potatoes cook uniformly. Use a sharp knife or mandoline for consistent sizing.
• Skipping the sauce distribution – Not applying the sauce evenly can lead to dry spots. Make sure to brush most of the sauce over the medallions before baking.
• Ignoring cooking times – Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your dish. Check for tenderness around the 45-minute mark to prevent overcooking.
• Overcrowding the baking dish – Too many layers can trap steam and hinder caramelization. Arrange your medallions in a single layer when possible.
• Not letting it cool before serving – Serving immediately can result in a mess. Allow your dish to cool for 10-15 minutes for better presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-5 days for optimal flavor and freshness.

Freezing Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop – In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and cover. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes:

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes! While sweet potatoes give a unique flavor, you can substitute with regular potatoes if desired.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

Simply replace the unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter.

What spices work well with scalloped sweet potatoes?

In addition to cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, consider adding ginger or allspice for additional warmth and flavor.

Can I customize my toppings?

Absolutely! Try adding crushed nuts, dried fruits, or even different types of vegan marshmallows for variety.

How do I know when my scalloped sweet potatoes are done?

The sweet potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape.

Final Thoughts

The Best Scalloped Sweet Potatoes make an excellent side dish for any festive occasion. Their sweet flavor combined with warm spices creates a comforting experience. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite toppings or spices to make it truly your own!