As I stood in the kitchen, the rich aroma of warm spices filled the air, transporting me to cozy holiday gatherings. There’s something magical about Scalloped Sweet Potatoes, especially when they’re drenched in a luscious brown sugar sauce and topped with crispy pecans and mini marshmallows. This Buttery Brown Sugar Scalloped Sweet Potatoes recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity, making it an absolute showstopper as a Thanksgiving or Christmas side dish. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also quick to prepare, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities. Ready to elevate your holiday table and wow your loved ones with a dish that melds tradition with a delightful twist? Let’s dive into this cozy culinary adventure!
Why are Scalloped Sweet Potatoes a Must-Try?
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This dish is sure to make your holiday gatherings memorable, blending sweet and savory in every bite.
Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of the ingredients at home, making it a breeze to whip up.
Irresistible Topping: The combination of crunchy pecans and sweet marshmallows adds a delightful texture that everyone will love.
Festive Flavors: Infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this recipe brings the holiday spirit to your table.
Versatile Side: Perfect for pairing with everything from Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes to savory roast turkey, this dish fits right in at any feast.
Get ready to impress with this unique spin on a classic favorite!
Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Ingredients
• Discover the delightful components of this delicious dish!
For the Sweet Potatoes
- Sweet Potatoes – Use medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into thin medallions for even cooking.
- Salt – Use sparingly to perfectly balance the sweetness of the scalloped sweet potatoes.
For the Sauce
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and a creamy texture; you can use salted butter, just omit extra salt.
- Brown Sugar – Sweetens the sauce and creates that heavenly caramel-like flavor.
- Water – Helps dissolve the sugar; for a richer sauce, consider substituting with heavy cream.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warm depth; this spice beautifully complements the sweetness of sweet potatoes.
- Ground Cloves – Infuses a distinct, aromatic flair into the mixture.
- Ground Nutmeg – Elevates the overall flavor profile, deepening the dish’s holiday essence.
For the Topping
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts – Provides crunch and delicious depth; feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts.
- Mini Marshmallows – Sweetens the top and adds wonderful texture; you can add more for an extra indulgent topping.
This combination creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures, making your Scalloped Sweet Potatoes truly unforgettable!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buttery Brown Sugar Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Pecans and Marshmallows
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a consistent cooking temperature for your scalloped sweet potatoes, allowing them to bake evenly. While the oven warms up, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and the sauce, ensuring everything is ready to go when the time comes.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Peel the medium sweet potatoes and slice them into thin medallions using a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness. Aim for about 1/8-inch slices so that they cook evenly in the oven. Once sliced, set them aside in a bowl to keep them fresh while you prepare the flavorful sauce.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of water, and a pinch of salt, along with 1 teaspoon each of ground cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Stir the mixture continuously until it’s well combined and the sugar dissolves, creating a deliciously aromatic sauce, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Layer the Sweet Potatoes
In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sweet potato medallions, spreading them evenly to create a solid base. Drizzle about ¾ of the prepared sauce over the first layer of sweet potatoes, ensuring they are well-coated. This step is crucial for infusing each slice with that mouthwatering flavor from the brown sugar sauce.
Step 5: Bake the Dish
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and moisture, which will help cook the sweet potatoes tenderly. Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender and beautifully soft. Keep an eye on the time to ensure they don’t overcook.
Step 6: Add Final Toppings
After the baking time, carefully remove the aluminum foil from the dish. Drizzle the remaining sauce over the baked sweet potatoes, then sprinkle a generous amount of chopped pecans and mini marshmallows on top. This combination will create a wonderful crunchy topping that elevates your scalloped sweet potatoes.
Step 7: Broil for Perfection
Set your oven to the broil setting and place the baking dish back in, watching closely. Broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and toasty. This step adds a lovely caramelized finish to your dish, so stay attentive to prevent burning.
Step 8: Cool Before Serving
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve your scalloped sweet potatoes. Once cooled slightly, it’s ready to be enjoyed at your festive gatherings or family dinners!
What to Serve With Buttery Brown Sugar Scalloped Sweet Potatoes?
The perfect meal deserves an equally delightful selection of sides to create an unforgettable feast.
- Roasted Turkey: The savory richness complements the sweet flavors of the scalloped sweet potatoes, making for a harmonious balance at your holiday table.
- Spiral Ham: The smoky, salty notes of ham contrast beautifully with the sweet and buttery profile of the scalloped potatoes, elevating your festive dinner.
- Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of bright, tart cranberry sauce provides a refreshing zing that cuts through the richness of the sweet potatoes, ensuring a well-rounded plate.
- Corn Casserole: This creamy, corny delight adds a lovely texture and sweetness that pairs well, creating a comforting medley of flavors.
- Green Bean Almondine: The crispness of green beans sautéed with slivered almonds brings a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the sweet potatoes perfectly.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and garlicky, these mashed potatoes add heartiness to your meal, complementing the sweetness in a delightful way.
- Baked Apples: For a sweet touch, serve baked apples on the side. The warm spices in the apples echo those in the sweet potatoes, enhancing the overall holiday experience.
- Festive Punch: Pair your dinner with a refreshing apple cider or cranberry punch for a lively, seasonal beverage that enhances each bite with its fruity zing.
Embrace these pairings to create a symphony of flavors that turns your festive gathering into an unforgettable celebration!
Make Ahead Options
These Buttery Brown Sugar Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen during your busy holiday gatherings! You can peel and slice the sweet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them submerged in water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Additionally, prepare the brown sugar sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the sweet potatoes and sauce in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake as per the original instructions. This prep-ahead approach ensures your scalloped sweet potatoes are just as delicious, giving you a wonderful stress-free cooking experience!
How to Store and Freeze Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. Refrigeration helps maintain the flavors and texture of your scalloped sweet potatoes.
Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, ensure as much air as possible is removed before sealing.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
Avoid Re-freezing: It’s best not to refreeze scalloped sweet potatoes once thawed, as it can alter the texture and taste of this delicious dish.
Helpful Tricks for Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
-
Use a Mandoline: Consistent slicing ensures even cooking of the sweet potatoes, resulting in that perfect tender texture everyone loves.
-
Watch the Broiling: Keep a close eye while broiling; those mini marshmallows can go from golden to burnt in seconds!
-
Soak Slices Ahead: If you’re prepping in advance, soak your sliced sweet potatoes in water to prevent browning and keep them fresh.
-
Rich Sauce Option: For a creamier sauce, swap water for heavy cream, adding a luxurious touch to your scalloped sweet potatoes.
-
Select Your Nuts: Feel free to experiment with different nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for a unique twist on the topping’s crunch.
Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Variations
Feel free to get creative with this scalloped sweet potato recipe to match your family’s preferences and dietary needs!
-
Heavy Cream Substitute: For a richer sauce, swap water with heavy cream, enhancing the dish’s creamy texture. This makes each bite luscious and indulgent.
-
Nut Variations: Use different nuts like almond slices or hazelnuts for a unique twist. Chopped walnuts also make a great alternative if you’re focused on texture.
-
Marshmallow Alternatives: If you want to skip the marshmallows, try using toasted coconut flakes to add a chewy texture and tropical flavor. They bring an unexpected flair that pairs beautifully with sweet potatoes.
-
Add Veggies: Chopped spinach or kale can be incorporated into the layers for added nutrition and color. They provide a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the potatoes.
-
Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste. For a less sweet version, use half the amount and let the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes shine through.
-
Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can be added to the sauce, providing a tantalizing kick to the overall flavor profile.
-
Herbed Variation: Fresh chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme can be introduced into the topping for an aromatic flair. This twist beautifully complements the dish, lending it a savory undertone.
-
Savory Layer: Consider layering in thinly sliced onions between the sweet potato layers for an additional savory edge. The onion’s natural sweetness cooks down and harmonizes with the sweet potatoes, creating depth in flavor.
Explore your options and make this dish your family’s signature side! If you’re in the mood for more delicious sides, check out these recipes for Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes or Cheese Stuffed Pears for a delightful spread.
Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What kind of sweet potatoes should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely, I recommend using medium sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture. Look for ones that are firm and free of dark spots or blemishes. They should feel heavy in your hand and have smooth skin for optimal cooking and taste.
How should I store leftovers of Scalloped Sweet Potatoes?
To store your delicious scalloped sweet potatoes, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-5 days. Reheating is a breeze too—just pop them in the microwave for a quick dish anytime!
Can I freeze Scalloped Sweet Potatoes? If so, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze scalloped sweet potatoes! First, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy them for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply place them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
What if my sweet potatoes are turning brown before I cook them?
Very frequently, sweet potatoes can start to oxidize and brown once cut. If you are slicing them ahead of time, simply soak them in cold water with a splash of lemon juice for 30 minutes. This will help prevent browning and keep them looking fresh until you’re ready to cook.
Can I make this dish gluten-free and dairy-free?
Yes! To keep this recipe gluten-free, ensure that your brown sugar is gluten-free (which most are) and swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or a plant-based butter. You can also substitute heavy cream or water with a dairy-free milk option for a rich consistency while maintaining that delicious flavor.
Are there any common troubleshooting tips for this recipe?
If your scalloped sweet potatoes turn out soggy, it could be due to excess moisture. Ensure that you cover the dish tightly with foil while baking to trap steam, but if the dish is too watery, it might help to briefly broil uncovered to allow excess liquid to evaporate. Additionally, watch the broiling stage carefully; marshmallows can go from perfectly toasted to burnt very quickly!
Savory Scalloped Sweet Potatoes with Crunchy Pecan Topping
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into thin medallions.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, water, and spices until well combined.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sweet potato medallions and drizzle with ¾ of the sauce.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45-50 minutes until tender.
- After baking, remove foil, drizzle remaining sauce, and top with pecans and marshmallows.
- Broil for 1-2 minutes until marshmallows are golden brown.
- Let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Leave a Reply