Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining the sweetness of sweet potatoes with crunchy pecans and fluffy marshmallows. This recipe is perfect for cozy family gatherings or festive holidays, making it a go-to comfort food that everyone will love. The combination of spices adds warmth and depth, setting this dish apart from other side options.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and spices creates a rich taste that is hard to resist.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe allows anyone to whip up a fantastic dish without stress.
• Versatile Dish: Great for holidays or weeknight dinners, scalloped sweet potatoes fit various occasions perfectly.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The unique combination of marshmallows and pecans appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Comforting Experience: Enjoy this warm dish that evokes feelings of home and nostalgia with every bite.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. Gather these items before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Medium saucepan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ideal for layering sweet potato medallions evenly, ensuring even cooking.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for heating ingredients together without overcrowding, allowing for easy mixing.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps in cutting sweet potatoes into uniform medallions for consistent baking.

Ingredients

Scalloped sweet potatoes with pecans, marshmallows, and cozy spices. Perfect for holidays or comfort food cravings.

For the Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

• 5-6 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin medallions
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup light or dark brown sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1/2 cup mini marshmallows

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that your scalloped sweet potatoes bake evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare Sweet Potatoes

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

Step 3: Create the Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsalted butter, brown sugar, water, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and salt. Stir continuously until everything is melted and fully combined.

Step 4: Coat the Sweet Potatoes

Using a brush, evenly apply about 3/4 of the sauce over the arranged sweet potato medallions. Cover the baking dish with foil to keep moisture in while baking.

Step 5: Bake

Place the covered baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Remove from oven and carefully uncover. Pour the remaining sauce over the potatoes. Sprinkle chopped pecans and mini marshmallows evenly across the top.

Step 7: Broil

Return the baking dish to the oven but switch to broil mode. Broil for just 1-2 minutes until marshmallows are toasted to your liking. Keep a close eye during this step to avoid burning.

Enjoy your delicious Scalloped Sweet Potatoes!

How to Serve Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Scalloped sweet potatoes make a delightful addition to any meal. Their sweet and savory flavors pair well with various dishes, making them versatile for different occasions.

As a Festive Holiday Side

• Thanksgiving Dinner: Serve scalloped sweet potatoes alongside turkey and cranberry sauce for a comforting holiday feast.
• Christmas Feast: Pair with glazed ham and roasted vegetables for a colorful Christmas dinner.

With Casual Family Meals

• Weeknight Dinners: Enjoy these scalloped sweet potatoes as a side dish with grilled chicken or pork chops.
• Potluck Parties: Bring this dish to gatherings where it will shine among other sides, delighting both kids and adults.

As a Comfort Food Dish

• Cozy Nights In: Serve warm scalloped sweet potatoes as the star of your dinner when you crave something comforting.
• Brunch Treat: Offer them alongside eggs and bacon for a hearty brunch that everyone will love.

How to Perfect Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Creating the perfect scalloped sweet potatoes is easy with a few tips. These suggestions will elevate your dish and ensure great results every time.

• Choose Quality Sweet Potatoes: Select firm, smooth sweet potatoes without blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
• Cut Even Medallions: Slice your sweet potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking throughout the baking process.
• Layer Wisely: Arrange the medallions in overlapping layers to capture all that delicious sauce while baking.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your taste; try adding ginger or allspice for an extra kick.
• Monitor Marshmallow Browning: Keep an eye on the broiler when toasting marshmallows, as they can burn quickly if left unattended.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allow your dish to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Pairing side dishes with scalloped sweet potatoes can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil and garlic, these sprouts add a nice crunch and earthy flavor that complements sweetness.
2. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic provide freshness and balance against the rich sweetness of the main dish.
3. Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness works harmoniously with scalloped sweet potatoes, creating a colorful plate.
4. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast that lightens up the meal’s heaviness.
5. Stuffing or Dressing: Traditional stuffing brings savory elements that pair wonderfully with the sweetness of scalloped potatoes.
6. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness, making each bite more enjoyable.
7. Baked Macaroni and Cheese: This classic comfort food adds creaminess, making it a favorite pairing for family meals.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob: The charred flavors of grilled corn add a delightful smokiness that enhances your plate’s appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making scalloped sweet potatoes, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping the soaking step: If you do not soak the sweet potatoes after cutting them, they may turn brown and lose their vibrant color. Soak them in cold water for about 30 minutes before cooking.

• Not seasoning adequately: Insufficient seasoning can lead to bland scalloped sweet potatoes. Be sure to measure your spices correctly for a well-balanced flavor profile.

• Overcrowding the baking dish: Packing sweet potatoes too tightly can prevent even cooking. Arrange them in a single layer or use multiple baking dishes if necessary.

• Ignoring cooking times: Every oven is different, and ignoring the recommended cooking time can lead to undercooked or burnt potatoes. Keep an eye on them during baking for the best results.

• Using old or stale ingredients: Outdated spices or marshmallows can diminish the taste of your dish. Always check ingredient freshness before starting your recipe.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store scalloped sweet potatoes in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

• You can freeze scalloped sweet potatoes for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a serving on a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make scalloped sweet potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare scalloped sweet potatoes a day in advance. Just assemble them without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to cook.

What variations can I try with scalloped sweet potatoes?

You can customize this recipe by adding cheese, different nuts, or even apples for added sweetness. Feel free to experiment!

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

The dish is done when the sweet potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The top should be golden brown as well.

What should I serve with scalloped sweet potatoes?

Scalloped sweet potatoes pair well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as part of a holiday spread alongside other sides.

Final Thoughts

Scalloped sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their creamy texture combined with the sweetness from marshmallows and crunch from pecans creates an irresistible side dish. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or toppings! Don’t hesitate to try this comforting recipe at your next gathering!