Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are a creamy, comforting side dish that always feels like a special treat. Thin slices of sweet potatoes baked in a rich, cheesy sauce create a deliciously soft texture with a golden, bubbly top that’s hard to resist. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory flavors, making it a favorite during holiday dinners or any time you want something warm and satisfying.
I love making scalloped sweet potatoes because they bring a little cozy vibe to the table without much fuss. One of my favorite tricks is to add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sauce—it adds just a hint of warmth that makes the dish feel even more homey. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some veggies onto the plate in a way that everyone will enjoy.
When I serve this dish, I often like to have it alongside roasted chicken or a simple green salad to balance out the richness. It’s also wonderful reheated for leftovers the next day because the flavors deepen, and it tastes just as good, if not better. If you’re looking for a recipe that feels like a hug in food form, scalloped sweet potatoes are the way to go.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm, large sweet potatoes for even slices that cook well. If you want a lighter color and milder flavor, you can swap for Yukon gold potatoes, but the natural sweetness changes.
Cream: Heavy cream makes the dish rich and smooth. For a lighter version, use whole milk or half-and-half. Coconut milk is a good dairy-free alternative, though it adds a subtle coconut taste.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings bold flavor and gold browning. Gruyère adds a nutty, creamy taste if mixed in. You can also try mozzarella for milder cheese or vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
Herbs & Spices: Fresh thyme is perfect here, but dried thyme works in a pinch—use less of it. A pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon adds warm flavor and complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.
How Can I Make Evenly Cooked Sweet Potato Slices?
Getting sweet potato slices cooked just right is key. Thin, even slices ensure they heat through evenly. Use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness (about 1/8-inch).
- Peel the sweet potatoes before slicing for a smooth texture.
- Arrange slices in even layers without crowding to let heat circulate.
- Cover with foil during baking to trap steam and soften potatoes.
- Remove foil near the end to brown the top nicely.
Taking these steps helps avoid undercooked or mushy spots, leading to that perfect creamy and tender scalloped sweet potato dish.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for layering sweet potatoes and sauce evenly.
- Mandoline slicer or sharp knife – helps you slice sweet potatoes thin and even for uniform cooking.
- Medium saucepan – for gently heating the cream sauce and melting butter without burning.
- Mixing spoon – to stir the sauce and spread ingredients smoothly.
- Aluminum foil – to cover the dish during baking and keep moisture in for tender potatoes.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked crumbled bacon for a smoky crunch that pairs well with the creamy sweet potatoes.
- Mix in caramelized onions instead of raw for a sweeter, richer onion flavor.
- Try swapping half the cheddar with Gruyère or fontina for a nuttier, creamier cheese blend.
- Stir in chopped fresh sage or rosemary for a woodsy, herbal note that complements the sweetness.
Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (or a combination of cheddar and Gruyère)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for warmth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 1 hour to bake. After cooking, it’s good to rest for 10 minutes to thicken the sauce before serving. In total, set aside around 1 hour and 25 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or a non-stick spray.
2. Slice the Sweet Potatoes:
Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them thinly and evenly, about 1/8-inch thick. Even slices help the potatoes cook at the same rate.
3. Make the Cream Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream, thyme leaves, and a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon if you like. Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Layer the Dish:
Arrange a layer of sweet potato slices evenly in the baking dish. Pour some of the cream sauce over the potatoes, then sprinkle a light layer of cheese. Repeat these layers until all the sweet potatoes, cream, and cheese are used, ending with a top layer of cheese.
5. Bake and Brown:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Rest and Serve:
Let the scalloped sweet potatoes rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired, and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Sweet Potato Slices for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen sweet potato slices, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before layering to avoid excess moisture that could make the dish watery.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or almond milk, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Keep in mind the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!
Can I Prepare Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a little extra baking time if baking from cold.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if it seems dry.
